Buldhana: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has launched a scathing attack on the Mahavikas Aghadi, labeling it an "anti-development alliance" and accusing it of consistently opposing critical infrastructure projects in the state of Maharashtra. Speaking at a campaign rally in Malkapur, Shah emphasized the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) commitment to development while criticizing the Indian National Congress for its historical resistance to providing reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs). During his address, Shah announced a significant support initiative for women, pledging to provide Rs 2100 per month to "beloved sisters" once the Mahayuti government assumes power. This announcement was met with enthusiasm from a large crowd gathered at the grand grounds of Janata College, signaling a show of strength for the BJP and its alliance.
Shah did not hold back in his criticism of the Congress party, stating, "The Congress has indulged in dirty politics of appeasement since Nehru's time," and accused the party of being fundamentally anti-OBC. He recalled the historical neglect of OBC reservations, referencing the suppression of the Kakasaheb Kalelkar Committee report by Nehru and the shelving of the Mandal Commission report by Indira Gandhi. In contrast, he highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to extend OBC reservation, asserting that 27 percent reservation has been granted across all institutions. The Union Minister's remarks extended to the numerous development projects that the Aghadi coalition has opposed, including the Bullet Train, Mumbai Metro, Coastal Road, and the Dharavi redevelopment project. Shah challenged the Congress to provide accountability regarding funds allocated to Maharashtra during their governance between 2004 and 2014, claiming that the BJP has invested over 10 lakh crores in the state since taking power in 2014.
In a bold declaration, Shah also addressed recent discussions among Muslim ulema regarding reservations for backward castes, asserting, "Even if four generations come, we will not allow anyone to remove their reservation." He reinforced his party's stance on Article 370, promising that it would not be reinstated in Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, Shah drew historical parallels, framing the upcoming state assembly elections as a battle between a "Shivaji Maharaj-style alliance" and an "Afzal Khan-style alliance," urging voters to reject the Mahavikas Aghadi's leadership. As the political landscape heats up ahead of the state assembly elections, Shah's remarks have intensified discussions around development, reservation policies, and the future direction of Maharashtra's governance. The BJP's commitment to progress and empowerment remains a focal point in their campaign strategy as they seek to garner support from various demographic groups in the state.