With only a short time left before the second phase of voting commences, the political temperature across the country has spiked. An intriguing phenomenon where the BJP historically maintained a lead over the opposition in previous general elections, we now see the 2024 fight bitterly stretching from property surveys to the issue of Mangalsutra and Muslim reservations. Despite Congress's grievances to the Election Commission about PM Modi's statements, the war of words rages on. Modi has accused Congress of targeting Mangalsutra and offering reservations to Muslims, while Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi fiercely counters, claiming her mother Sonia Gandhi sacrificed her Mangalsutra for the nation.
What began with PM Narendra Modi hoisting an issue based on Congress's manifesto and Rahul Gandhi's statements in Telangana, has now become a prominent theme across BJP. From Amit Shah to Gajendra Shekhawat, this matter is being pursued vigorously. PM Modi, addressing a rally in Banswara, stated that under Congress rule, properties would be distributed among large families and intruders. He questioned the electorate about their position on their hard-earned wealth potentially being allocated to trespassers. The Congress manifesto asserts tracking of gold owned by women, with the intention to redistribute it according to former PM Manmohan Singh, who opined that Muslims have first claim on the country's resources. Modi warns of an 'Urban Naxal' mindset, threatening the security of women's Mangalsutras and other possessions.
Priyanka Gandhi's Counterblast Over Mangalsutra Remark
Responding to PM Modi's Mangalsutra comments in a Bengaluru rally, Priyanka Gandhi called out the insincerity of such claims. She reminded the public of Congress's extensive period in power without once seizing people's gold or Mangalsutras, citing examples of personal sacrifices for the nation by leaders like Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi. If Modi truly understood the significance of a Mangalsutra, he wouldn't reduce it to a ploy to instill fear in women for votes, she asserted.
What Does the Congress Manifesto Actually Say?
The manifesto, released this month by Congress, lacked any mention of seizing Mangalsutras or redistributing wealth to Muslims. It made no provisions for Sharia Law or seizure of extra homes or cars to be given to others. However, it promised economic reforms to resolve growing income inequality. On the aspect of property distribution, the manifesto hints at conducting a socioeconomic census to aid in reforms. As for minority rights, Congress reiterates its commitment to upholding these within the framework of the constitution, promoting equality and empowerment without discrimination.
Debates intensify regarding propaganda exploiting concerns on minority rights and asset division, raising questions on its impact on the voters and whether such narratives are reminders to core BJP supporters about the alleged focus of Congress on minority appeasement.
