Rajnath Singh blames Opposition for creating North-South divide for ‘narrow’ political gains

The BJP is the ruling party across various states in the country and the allegation that it is only a part of north India is "factually wrong", Rajnath Singh said.

PTI

Published Feb 28, 2024 | 8:41 AM ⚊ Updated Feb 28, 2024 | 8:41 AM

Rajnath Singh at the ‘Karyakarta Sammelan’ at Eluru in Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday, 27 February. State BJP chief Daggubati Purandeswari is also seen. (X)

The BJP is not a north-centric party and the north-south binary has been created by the opposition parties for “narrow” political gains, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Tuesday, 27 February, asserting that such efforts to discredit the party also put a question mark on national integrity.

Addressing an event, Singh said the BJP was the ruling party across various states in the country and the allegation that it is only a part of north India is “factually wrong”.
The saffron party has been in power in the southern state of Karnataka.

“An allegation is often levelled against us that the BJP is only a party of north India. You all must have heard this. They also make this allegation against us that we are only a party of the Hindi belt. We have formed a government with an absolute majority twice in Assam. Assam is not a Hindi belt state,” he said.

The senior BJP leader said the party has been registering its effective presence in states like Rajasthan and Gujarat for about three-four decades and that it received maximum seats in western India in the last Lok Sabha elections.

Also Read: What does an alliance with TDP mean for BJP in Andhra Pradesh?

YSRCP lacks vision: Singh

He further emphasised several key points regarding the BJP’s political presence, its commitment to national integrity, and its vision for India’s progress:

Regional Presence: Singh refuted claims that the BJP is solely a party of North India, pointing out its significant presence and electoral success in various states across India, including southern states like Karnataka. He highlighted the party’s longstanding governance in Gujarat and its growing influence in states like West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
National Integrity: Singh criticised the Opposition parties for creating a north-south binary for political gains, asserting that such efforts not only discredit the BJP but also cast doubts on national integrity. He stressed the need to bridge regional differences and focus on national unity.
International Standing: Singh highlighted India’s enhanced credibility on the international stage under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, citing examples of diplomatic successes and global recognition. He emphasised India’s growing stature as a powerful nation.
Secularism and Communal Allegations: He rejected allegations of communalism against the BJP, asserting that it is the largest secular party globally. He pointed out the recognition bestowed upon Prime Minister Modi by several Arab countries as evidence of the party’s inclusive approach.
Accomplishments and Governance: The defence minister highlighted various achievements of the BJP-led government, including the abolition of Article 370, the enactment of the Triple Talaq law, and steps toward implementing a Uniform Civil Code. He emphasized the party’s commitment to fulfilling its promises and prioritizing long-term gains over short-term interests.
Economic Progress: Singh outlined measures taken by the Modi government to bolster India’s economic progress, such as the introduction of GST and initiatives to improve infrastructure. He highlighted the reduction in non-performing assets (NPAs) and India’s improved economic standing on the global stage.
Preparedness for Elections: Singh reviewed the party’s preparedness for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in Andhra Pradesh, expressing confidence in the BJP’s prospects in the state. He criticised the ruling YSRCP government in Andhra Pradesh, accusing it of lacking vision and being embroiled in corruption scandals.

Overall, Singh’s address underscored the BJP’s commitment to national unity, development, and good governance while rebutting criticism from Opposition parties and highlighting its achievements and vision for the future.

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