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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his first campaign rally in Maharashtra for the upcoming state assembly elections, launched a scathing attack on the Congress party, accusing them of engaging in 'dangerous politics' aimed at dividing scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and other backward classes (OBCs) for their own political gains. He claimed that this strategy not only weakens the country but also serves their self-serving interests.
Modi's remarks centered around the Congress's historical stance on reservations, asserting that three former Congress prime ministers – Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi – had opposed providing reservations to Dalits, tribals, and OBCs. He cited Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar's opposition to Nehru's decision and emphasized that Indira Gandhi continued this policy, while Rajiv Gandhi opposed reservation for OBCs. He further stated that the current Congress leader, Rahul Gandhi, continues this divisive approach, which Modi labeled as 'dangerous' and detrimental to the nation's unity.
Modi accused the Congress of employing a strategy of dividing the Dalits, tribals, and OBCs to maintain their political relevance. He argued that the Congress understands that a united front of these communities would pose a significant threat to their political standing. Therefore, they strategically create animosity and conflict among these groups to perpetuate their hold on power. He went on to state that the Congress's historical policies of dividing communities based on religion were responsible for the partition of India. He urged the Congress to remember that a united India ensures the safety and well-being of its citizens.
Turning his attention to the recent resolution passed by the Jammu and Kashmir government seeking the restoration of Article 370, Modi alleged that the Congress and their allies in J&K are plotting to break the country. He accused them of promoting the agenda of Pakistan, which he deemed dangerous for India. Modi argued that the Congress's stance on Article 370 is hypocritical, claiming that while they demand its restoration in J&K, they simultaneously use the Indian Constitution to deceive Dalits, tribals, and OBCs in Maharashtra for their own political gains. He asserted that as long as he has the support of the Indian people, the Constitution will prevail in J&K, and he would not allow the Congress to succeed in their agenda.
Modi concluded his speech by urging the voters of Maharashtra to support the Mahayuti, the ruling coalition, for the state's progress. He highlighted the popularity of the Ladki Bahin scheme implemented by the coalition, which has garnered widespread acclaim across the country.