Nagpur: Deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis accused the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) stating the alliance was engaging in divisive politics. Addressing public rallies in Arvi and Saoner for BJP candidates Sumit Wankhede and Ashish Deshmukh on Monday, Fadnavis labelled the upcoming assembly elections as a "Dharmyuddh" (battle of principles), alleging that the opposition was indulging in what he termed as "Vote Jihad".
The deputy CM's remarks were particularly aimed at the controversial statement made by Sajjad Nomani, a member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), who reportedly called for social boycott of Muslims who voted for BJP.
The deputy CM referred to Nomani's statement as an attempt to polarise voters on communal lines. He alleged that MVA leaders were "pandering to religious sentiments" to secure electoral gains. He accused the opposition of aligning with individuals and organisations that are "undermining democratic values" by issuing communal appeals.
"This is not an ordinary election; it is a battle for the future of our state," he declared and claimed that the BJP-led Mahayuti govt stands for inclusive development and governance, contrasting it with what he called the "appeasement politics" of the MVA.
Fadnavis underscored that the state has taken developmental strides under the BJP-led govt. He spoke about key initiatives like the Samruddhi Mahamarg, the Wainganga-Nalganga irrigation project, and textile ventures in Vidarbha, emphasising how these projects created employment and improved infrastructure.
The deputy CM stated that BJP is the defender of principles and progress, and accused the opposition of "compromising with communal elements for political gain". "The MVA abandoned the path of development and is now bowing to extremist agendas," he alleged, reiterating that the BJP will stand firm against such attempts to polarise society.
He urged voters to support BJP's vision for a progressive Maharashtra, asserting that their govt's focus on welfare schemes for farmers and women empowerment stands in stark contrast to the MVA's "regressive politics".
Fadnavis emphasised that the BJP-led govt has a clear roadmap for the holistic development of constituencies like Saoner and Arvi. Highlighting the significant investments brought into regions like Gadchiroli, he promised similar transformation and opportunities for Vidarbha. "Let's ensure a brighter future for Maharashtra by rejecting divisive politics and supporting the path of development and welfare," he said.
During his door-to-door campaign in his Nagpur South-West constituency, particularly in Jaitala and adjoining areas, Fadnavis appealed to voters to remain vigilant against what he described as "divisive tactics designed to exploit religious sentiments". He encouraged them to view their vote as a responsibility towards securing the state's future, urging them to vote for the BJP's lotus symbol on November 20. "This election is a choice between two contrasting paths — development and divisiveness," he said while appealing to BJP cadres, to go door-to-door to spread awareness about the govt's accomplishments and mobilise support.