In an intensifying war of words over allegations of appeasement politics, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath openly criticized Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge during a rally in Maharashtra’s Achalpur. Adityanath, addressing a crowd in support of the BJP’s campaign, evoked a traumatic chapter from Kharge’s childhood to underscore what he sees as the Congress leader’s selective focus on appeasement politics. According to Adityanath, Kharge has chosen to overlook a family tragedy from 1948, when the pro-Nizam Razakars, a militia that supported Hyderabad’s Nizam, reportedly attacked and burned down Kharge’s village, resulting in the deaths of his mother and sister. The Nizam of Hyderabad had resisted joining the newly independent India, and the Razakars, acting under his influence, allegedly carried out attacks on Hindu supporters of integration, leading to significant violence in the region until Indian forces intervened.
Drawing on this tragic history, Adityanath argued that Kharge has shied away from speaking openly about these incidents to avoid alienating Muslim voters. The Chief Minister questioned Kharge’s dedication to the nation, contrasting it with his own stance, stating, “I am a Yogi, and for me, the nation comes first, while for Mallikarjun Kharge, appeasement politics comes first.” Adityanath continued his attack, suggesting that Kharge’s reticence to acknowledge the suffering of his own family stems from a desire to protect his political standing among particular voter groups, accusing him of valuing political calculations over historical truth.
Adityanath’s statements follow a series of sharp exchanges between the two leaders. Kharge had recently responded to Adityanath’s slogan “batenge toh katenge” (“we will perish if divided”), calling it inflammatory and unsuitable for a leader who claims to uphold yogic principles. Kharge had asserted that such language was more reminiscent of “terrorists” than of someone in public service. He further criticized those in politics who don religious attire, stating that a “true yogi” would neither involve themselves in divisive politics nor use provocative rhetoric. Kharge also suggested that those who adopt religious symbolism like the 'gerua' (saffron) robe, a symbol of renunciation in Hindu tradition, should avoid politics altogether if they intend to truly live by such spiritual ideals.
In response to Adityanath’s latest remarks, Ajay Rai, the Uttar Pradesh Congress chief, defended Kharge’s reputation, stating that Kharge has always championed unity and the welfare of all communities. Rai emphasized that during the difficult times of the 1948 Razakar violence, people of all backgrounds—Hindus and Muslims alike—stood in solidarity, united in their desire to join India. Rai underscored that Kharge’s political journey has consistently reflected this commitment to unity and inclusivity, traits he views as essential for national leadership.
This exchange has highlighted the growing polarization in the lead-up to the Maharashtra elections, where the BJP’s campaign, led by figures like Adityanath, appears to be emphasizing Hindu unity while cautioning against caste-based divisions. Adityanath’s rallying cry, “batenge toh katenge,” is seen as a direct appeal to consolidate Hindu voters, positioning the BJP as a unifying force against alleged threats to national integrity. He also targeted the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, describing it as an entity that compromises national cohesion. He accused the MVA of fostering divisive agendas, including what he termed as “love jihad” and “land jihad,” suggesting that the alliance has contributed to social and cultural fragmentation in Maharashtra.
The discourse between Adityanath and Kharge reflects the broader political strategy of invoking historical events and cultural symbols to influence voter sentiment. Adityanath’s comments are likely aimed at reinforcing the BJP’s core message of Hindu unity, while Kharge’s rebuttal appears to focus on promoting a vision of inclusive nationalism that avoids religious polarization. With both leaders exchanging pointed words and criticisms, the Maharashtra campaign seems set to intensify as each side attempts to sway voters with contrasting visions of unity, identity, and the nation’s history.
