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In a scathing attack ahead of the Maharashtra assembly elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lambasted the Congress party, accusing them of hindering India's progress and employing divisive tactics to regain power. Speaking at a rally in Nashik, Modi characterized the Congress as a “parasitic party” that relies on coalition partners for survival, asserting that its waning influence is a testament to its divisive politics. He further claimed that Congress is actively attempting to weaken Other Backward Classes (OBC) communities, particularly by fueling tensions within the caste system, as they are unsettled by the presence of an OBC Prime Minister serving a third term.
Modi highlighted the Congress's opposition to policies like the Ladki Bahan Yojana, aimed at empowering women and OBCs, and their past mismanagement of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), which has now achieved record profits under BJP leadership. He contrasted BJP's commitment to a unified India with Congress's stance on Article 370, accusing them of attempting to re-implement the provision and weaken the Constitution in Jammu and Kashmir. Modi emphasized BJP's “One Nation, One Constitution” approach, reiterating their commitment to a unified India.
The Prime Minister also touted the achievements of the BJP’s “double-engine government” in Maharashtra, showcasing development programs like the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi and Namo Shetkari Maha Samman Nidhi, which provide financial support to farmers. He attributed the economic upliftment of over 25 crore people to BJP policies and promised to increase the annual assistance to farmers from Rs 12,000 to Rs 15,000 if re-elected. Modi further criticized Congress's “Gareebi Hatao” slogan, arguing that poverty persisted under their rule while BJP’s governance has brought tangible progress. He credited his government with lifting 25 crore people out of poverty, highlighting initiatives like the Ujjwala Yojana, providing free gas connections, and the Jal Jeevan Mission, which has brought tap water to over 1.25 crore households.
Modi concluded his speech by urging voters to support the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance to ensure the continuation of these pro-people initiatives. He framed the upcoming elections as crucial for Maharashtra’s growth and stability, warning that a Congress return to power would reverse these achievements. This rally marked a significant escalation in the political campaign, with both the BJP and Congress utilizing strong rhetoric and highlighting their respective achievements and shortcomings of the other party to sway voters in their favor.