The BJP’s failure to secure a majority this time indicates a public desire for change. However, with the BJP forming a government through alliances, the public feels deceived. Despite the lack of a majority, there have been no changes in the key positions or portfolios within the government.
Many had hoped for a visible shift due to the BJP’s reduced numbers, but the surrender of Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu prevented this. Although termed the NDA government, it functions much like the previous Modi administration, with all significant ministries still controlled by the BJP.
The politics of Nitish Kumar and Naidu have falsely led to the belief that the people have given Narendra Modi another mandate. Yet, a true mandate is when a single party is voted into power by the populace. The future will reveal the consequences of their opportunistic politics, but their support has given Modi and his team free rein to govern.
The recent parliamentary session showed a slight change in tone from the Prime Minister and his team, yet his speech indicated a continuation of his previous governance style. Although the opposition is stronger, the systematic targeting of minorities, especially Muslims, over the past decade shows little sign of positive change. Following the election, a new wave of mob violence erupted nationwide.
Rahul Gandhi and other leaders raised their voices against hate and violence in Parliament, but the Prime Minister did not address these issues, focusing instead on criticizing the Congress party. This silence from Nitish Kumar and Naidu’s parties emboldens communal forces.
Since independence, no party has openly addressed the issues of the Muslim minority. Allegations of Congress appeasing Muslims are ironic, given its failure to implement the Sachar Committee or Rangnath Mishra Commission recommendations.
Despite their efforts, the BJP did not achieve the expected success, even in Uttar Pradesh, where the Ram Mandir’s inauguration was heavily publicized. However, the animosity towards Muslims persists, as evidenced by the post-election mob violence. Muslims are unfairly accused of voting solely to defeat the BJP, ignoring their democratic right to choose their preferred candidates.
A segment of society views everything through a religious lens, even distorting historical facts. Recently, Maulana Arshad Madani of Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind highlighted the united voting by Muslims to protect the Constitution and democracy, sparking unfounded accusations on a TV debate.
This divisive propaganda aims to create rifts among citizens. However, the recent election results show that such tactics have limited impact. The Muslim community has become more restrained, avoiding unnecessary reactions to provocations.
Historically, Muslims have shown love and goodwill towards their fellow citizens. During the recent Hathras tragedy, Muslims supported the victims, demonstrating their commitment to humanity over religious differences.
Maulana Arshad Madani emphasized that love and unity are the answers to the divisive tactics of communal forces. As Jigar Moradabadi famously said:
“Those involved in politics know their work, My message is love, wherever it reaches.”
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