In a fiery election campaign trail, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unleashed a blistering attack on the opposition alliance, dubbed the ‘INDIA bloc’. His remarks have sparked controversy, with accusations of divisive rhetoric and stoking communal tensions.
Safeguarding Reservations: A Resolute Stance
Modi asserted his unwavering commitment to upholding the reservation system enshrined in the Indian Constitution. “I am giving the guarantee to Bihar, SC/ST/OBC communities, till Modi is alive, I will not let them snatch away their rights,” he declared. Accusing the opposition of plotting to undermine these provisions, he vowed to thwart any attempt to divert reservations from marginalized communities.
Allegations of ‘Vote Jihad’ and Minority Appeasement
The Prime Minister leveled serious allegations against the Congress party, accusing them of altering laws related to minority institutions to appease their vote bank. He claimed that this move led numerous institutions to designate themselves as minority institutions, impacting reservation quotas for SC/ST/OBC individuals during admissions. “In West Bengal, the government gave benefits of OBC reservation in government jobs to 77 Muslim castes. Those doing ‘vote jihad’ snatched the rights of OBCs and EBCs,” Modi asserted.
Veiled Attacks and Controversial Remarks
Without naming individuals, Modi warned that the “countdown” for arrest had started for those behind the alleged land-for-jobs scam, in an apparent reference to RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav. “With (his) helicopter sorties coming to an end, the way to jail will open for him,” the PM remarked.
In a controversial statement, Modi suggested that the ‘INDIA bloc’ could perform ‘mujra’ (a traditional dance form) or engage in “slavery” for their vote bank. “INDI alliance ko apne vote bank ki ghulami karni hai to kare. Unko wahan jaa ke mujra karna hai to bhi kare (The INDI alliance can do slavery for its vote bank if it wants. It can even go there and perform mujra if it wants),” he said.
Opposition’s Sharp Rebuke
Modi’s remarks drew sharp rebuke from opposition leaders. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized the PM, stating that he must maintain the decorum of his post. RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav accused Modi of stooping low with each passing phase of elections, adding, “Even his supporters do not like his language anymore.” Manoj Jha of the RJD expressed concern over the PM’s use of language, questioning if it befits the position he holds.
Heated Rhetoric and Divisive Politics
As the Bihar poll campaign intensifies, Modi’s fiery remarks have reignited allegations of divisive politics and stoking communal tensions. The opposition has accused the Prime Minister of resorting to polarizing rhetoric and fear-mongering tactics. With both sides trading barbs, the stage is set for a heated political battle in the crucial state elections.