With assembly elections looming in Maharashtra, Union Home Minister Amit Shah hinted at a major upcoming move to resolve the ongoing Maratha agitation. During his two-day visit to the state, Shah met with BJP officials in Vidarbha, reviewing the party’s preparations for the elections and strategizing on how to tackle the volatile situation surrounding the Maratha reservation demand.
During his interaction with BJP office bearers, Shah stressed the importance of focusing on strategy rather than emotions in the upcoming electoral battle. “The elections in Maharashtra influence national politics. It’s essential to be strategic and not driven by emotions,” Shah stated, underlining the significance of the state’s elections on the national political landscape.
Strategy for Elections and Focus on Marathwada
Shah provided specific instructions to the party’s cadres, asking them to target 30 out of 48 seats in the Marathwada region. He emphasized a structured approach, advising BJP workers to increase the voter base by 10 percent at each booth and ensuring continuous engagement with the electorate. “Start working with the understanding that the elections have begun today,” Shah said, while urging the party to leave no stone unturned in ensuring victory.
Addressing the Maratha Movement
A significant moment during Shah’s address came when he briefly mentioned the ongoing Maratha movement. “Don’t worry about the Maratha movement; Fadnavis and the government will take care of it,” Shah remarked. This has sparked speculation that the BJP is planning a concrete resolution to the Maratha reservation issue, which has become a flashpoint in the state.
Shah’s comments indicate that the central government is working on a strategy to address the grievances of the Maratha community, which has been pushing for reservations. The movement has gained momentum in recent months, and the resolution of the issue could be a crucial factor in the upcoming elections.
BJP’s Push for Grassroots Engagement
Apart from addressing the Maratha issue, Shah focused heavily on grassroots mobilization. He asked party workers to organize rallies and events from Dussehra to Diwali, aiming to bolster public support. Shah also encouraged BJP cadres to engage with opposition workers from the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and persuade them to switch sides.
Shah also made it clear that the BJP was not concerned with the internal dynamics of MVA. “Bring MVA workers into the BJP, and victory will be ours,” he said, urging his workers to remain steadfast and focused.