Nanded (Maharashtra): BJP MP and former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan criticized the slogan “batenge to katenge,” calling it inappropriate and irrelevant, adding that the public would not respond favorably to it.
In an interview with PTI on Wednesday, Chavan also downplayed the “vote jihad – dharma yuddha” rhetoric, emphasizing that the BJP and the ruling Mahayuti’s focus is on the development of the country and Maharashtra.
The slogan “batenge to katenge” (divided we fall) has been prominently used by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Yogi Adityanath in his rallies ahead of the November 20 Maharashtra assembly elections.
When asked about the “batenge to katenge” slogan, Mr. Chavan stated, “This slogan has no relevance. Slogans are often used during election time, but this one is in poor taste, and I don’t think the public will appreciate it. Personally, I’m not in favor of such slogans.” He added, “Every political leader should make decisions carefully, ensuring that no one’s sentiments are hurt.”
Speaking at Ardhapur in Nanded during his election campaign for the Mahayuti, Chavan also addressed the “vote jihad – dharma yuddha” narrative. Responding to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis’ recent call to counter “vote jihad” with “dharma-yuddha” of votes, Chavan emphasized that the Mahayuti and BJP’s policy centers on the development of both India and Maharashtra, as outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“I don’t give much importance to the ‘vote jihad’ rhetoric,” Chavan said. “For me, development is the only agenda. This is why people appreciate my stand, despite my shift to the BJP earlier this year after long association with the Congress.”
Regarding the Maratha reservation issue, Chavan commented on its impact in the recent Lok Sabha elections. “The Maratha quota issue had a bigger impact in the Lok Sabha elections. But after those elections, the Shinde government took important steps, such as granting 10% reservation and providing benefits to those with Kunbi certificates. People received jobs through the quota, and cases against those involved in the agitation were withdrawn,” he noted.
In February, the Maharashtra legislature passed a bill providing 10% reservation for the Maratha community in education and government jobs. However, activist Manoj Jarange continues to demand the Maratha quota under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category.
Mr. Chavan clarified that Manoj Jarange’s decision not to contest the elections or support any party was a personal choice, driven by his focus on securing reservation for his community. “I have met him and assured that the Mahayuti will address his demands once we are back in power,” Chavan said.
He described the election environment as positive, with strong enthusiasm among the public. “We had a rally with Central Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Wednesday, and the turnout was impressive. The Prime Minister also visited, and the electoral excitement is growing. The schemes launched by the state government are being implemented, and the people’s response has been positive. Our Mahayuti candidates will win with a strong margin,” he stated.
Asked about the number of seats the Mahayuti is likely to win in the 288-member assembly, Chavan said he had visited several parts of the state but not all. “We are confident of securing a comfortable majority to form the government,” he added.
On his switch from Congress to BJP, Chavan blamed certain individuals within the Congress for the difficulties he faced during political events from 2008 to 2010. “I don’t want to dwell on it, as it’s now part of history. I believe the decision I made was in the best interest of my career,” he said.
It is worth noting that the Adarsh housing scam in Mumbai led to Chavan’s resignation as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister in 2010.
