The national political stage is alive with discussion about the slogan 'Divide and Perish.' Originally voiced by the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, this slogan is now being creatively employed by Prime Minister Modi in his rallies, specifically targeting the opposition's caste-based politics strategy. This slogan is especially highlighted during the ongoing assembly elections in Jharkhand and Maharashtra. However, internal disagreements are apparent within the coalition, with Ajit Pawar openly opposing it. On various occasions, he criticized the slogan as inappropriate for Maharashtra. This raises the question: Why does Ajit Pawar seem uneasy about this slogan that the BJP views as a strategic masterstroke?
Why Ajit Pawar Distances Himself from the Slogan
Even though Ajit Pawar is currently part of the ruling coalition and holds responsibilities within the government, his political philosophy significantly diverges from the BJP's ideological stance. His political journey is rooted in the fight against inequality, and he has not explicitly used Hindu-centric imagery. Ajit Pawar's NCP includes a substantial number of minority community supporters, compelling him to distance himself from this slogan.
Numerous Candidates from the Muslim Community...
Ajit Pawar has fielded several Muslim candidates like Sanna Malik, Nawab Malik, Hasan Mushrif, and Baba Siddiqui's son Zeeshan. Adopting this slogan could undermine his strategy and alienate minority voters. Controversy erupted over Nawab Malik's candidacy, with open disputes between BJP and NCP.
Nawab Malik stated that he is not a candidate for the BJP or the coalition but is represented by Ajit Pawar's NCP. Reports indicate uneasy relations between Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, suggesting such statements might pose a political threat to Pawar.
Read also: 'Works in UP and Jharkhand, but not in Maharashtra': Ajit Pawar's stark message to BJP
Ajit Pawar's Response
NCP leader Ajit Pawar refuted CM Yogi's 'Divide and Perish' narrative, declaring, 'I do not support it. It doesn’t resonate in Maharashtra. This might work in UP or Jharkhand, but not here.' In response, Ajit Pawar advocates for 'Unity for All, Development for All.'
'Not in Maharashtra'
Deputy CM Ajit Pawar asserted that outsiders can't bring such ideologies to Maharashtra. BJP CMs from other states should decide their narratives. Ajit Pawar mentioned that despite working together in the coalition, party ideologies differ. What might apply elsewhere doesn't necessarily suit Maharashtra. Other BJP Chief Ministers should determine their narrative strategies.
To note, the Maharashtra assembly elections are set for November 20th. Following the Lok Sabha elections, Congress has pledged to exceed a 50% reservation quota upon winning. Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UP CM Yogi Adityanath persist in critiquing caste-based politics for electoral gain.
