As Maharashtra gears up for its Assembly elections, a group of Hindu seers has urged Sanatana Dharma followers to unite and vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), emphasizing the party’s commitment to protecting the values of Sanatana Dharma. The call comes amid escalating tensions over allegations of ‘vote jihad,’ with BJP leaders accusing Islamic clerics of urging Muslim voters to support the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, comprising the Congress, NCP, and Shiv Sena factions.
The controversy was sparked by a viral video of Islamic scholar Maulana Sajjad Nomani, who reportedly called for “capturing” the Maharashtra government and boycotting Muslims who support the BJP. The BJP has condemned these remarks, accusing the MVA of trying to divide voters on religious lines.
Trishul Singh, a head priest from Vrindavan’s Maheshwar Dham, responded to the controversy, stating, “If Muslim leaders are appealing to vote for an anti-Hindutva government, Hindus should unite and vote for a pro-Hindutva government. Today, conspiracies are being hatched to weaken Sanatana Dharma.” Trishul Singh urged Hindus to prioritize their cultural and religious values in the elections.
Saurabh Gaur, President of Dharam Raksha Sangha, echoed similar sentiments, denouncing what he described as communal mobilization against Hindus. “If the Muslim community can unite against Hindus, it is our duty to rally behind parties supporting Sanatana Dharma,” he said. Other seers also accused Muslim clerics of misleading voters and emphasized the importance of Hindus uniting to protect the welfare of the state and country.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned Nomani’s statements, describing them as divisive. Addressing a rally in Khadakwasla, Fadnavis declared, “If there is a ‘vote jihad,’ we must counter it with a dharma-yuddh of votes. Standing together ensures safety and stability.” Fadnavis also criticized a 17-point charter reportedly submitted by the Ulama Council to the MVA, which included demands for 10% Muslim reservation and the withdrawal of riot-related cases against Muslim youth.
BJP leader Kirit Somaiya announced plans to file a complaint against Nomani for alleged hate speech. Somaiya accused Nomani of violating the Election Commission’s code of conduct, alleging that his statements, shared widely on social media, incite division and hatred to prevent the BJP’s electoral success in Maharashtra.
The ongoing controversy highlights the charged political atmosphere in the state, with both sides accusing each other of communalizing the elections to sway voters.
