Ajit Pawar Opposes BJP’s ‘Batenge Toh Katenge’ in Maharashtra

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

NCP leader Ajit Pawar opposed BJP’s ‘Batenge Toh Katenge’ slogan.
He emphasized that the slogan won’t resonate in Maharashtra, suggesting a focus on unity and development.
UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath introduced and promoted the slogan.
Despite BJP being an ally in Maharashtra, Pawar voiced his opposition.
Maharashtra elections will be held in a single phase on November 20.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

In the run-up to the Maharashtra Assembly elections, the BJP has adopted the slogan ‘Batenge Toh Katenge’ (If divided, we perish), aimed at promoting Hindu unity. However, NCP leader and Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar opposed this slogan, deeming it unacceptable for Maharashtra. He suggested that the focus should instead be on “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” (Together for Everyone’s Development), promoting unity and development across communities.

Ajit Pawar’s Statement

In an interview with India Today, Pawar was asked about the ‘Batenge Toh Katenge’ slogan, to which he responded, “I do not support it. I have said this several times; it will not work in Maharashtra. This may work in UP, Jharkhand, or some other places.”

This slogan, originally introduced by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, referenced anti-Hindu violence in Bangladesh. The RSS and other BJP leaders later adopted it, making it central to BJP’s Maharashtra campaign.

BJP’s Campaign in Maharashtra

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis echoed this slogan in recent rallies. During a rally in Dhule, PM Modi stated, “We will remain safe if we remain united.” However, Pawar contended that Maharashtra’s politics are distinct, and such slogans may not align with the state’s cultural fabric.

Pawar’s Historical Reference

Previously, Pawar had voiced his objections to using the slogan. After Yogi Adityanath’s rally, he remarked that Maharashtra has long upheld communal harmony. He noted, “Maharashtra belongs to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, and Mahatma Phule. You cannot compare Maharashtra with other states; the people of Maharashtra do not like this.”

Congress’s Reaction

The Congress party criticized the slogan as divisive, with leader Rahul Gandhi accusing the BJP of fostering religious divide. This has become a focal point in Maharashtra’s upcoming election discourse.

Maharashtra Elections and Results

Maharashtra will hold Assembly elections in a single phase on November 20. The Mahayuti alliance, including the BJP, Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP, will face off against the Maha Vikas Aghadi (Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena, Sharad Pawar’s NCP, and the Congress). Vote counting will take place on November 23.

Key Takeaways to Remember

Ajit Pawar opposed BJP’s ‘Batenge Toh Katenge’ slogan in Maharashtra.
He believes Maharashtra should focus on ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.’
The Maharashtra elections will feature a major contest between Mahayuti and Maha Vikas Aghadi.