As the Great Indian Election kicked off with the first phase of polling covering 102 seats across 21 states and Union Territories, Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) unwavering stance on caste-based reservation policies. Speaking during an exclusive interview with NDTV, Shah emphasized that the BJP would steadfastly maintain the existing reservation system and prevent any attempts to alter it.
Addressing concerns raised by the opposition, Shah stated, ” the BJP will never change the caste-based reservation policy and won’t let anyone else touch it either.” He highlighted the BJP’s track record, noting that despite having the majority needed to amend the Constitution in previous years, the party has consistently upheld reservation policies without modification.
Shah’s remarks come amidst a backdrop of political campaigning as he filed his nomination from Gujarat’s Gandhinagar seat, scheduled for voting on May 7. He expressed confidence in the BJP’s performance in the upcoming elections, particularly in southern India. “Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka will perform strongly in all these states, this is the first time when (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi’s popularity in the South has reached a point where it will convert into election results,” ” he remarked, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s increasing popularity in the region.
Responding to allegations regarding the BJP’s intentions towards the Constitution, Shah clarified, “They are linking this with reservation and saying this in a roundabout way. I will answer this directly. In 2014, we (NDA) had the majority required to change the Constitution, in 2019, BJP had absolute majority. But we never tweaked reservation (policy). And I am making it clear, we will never tamper with reservation and won’t let anyone do it either. This is our commitment to the people. Modiji has worked the most for the betterment of Dalits, tribals and backward classes.” He underscored the BJP’s legislative achievements, such as the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, the abolition of triple talaq, and the enactment of the Citizenship Amendment Act, without compromising on reservation policies.
In his interview, Shah also addressed criticisms regarding electoral practices, including the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and the electoral bond system. He dismissed these concerns, pointing out that opposition parties have also utilized electoral bonds and have not been free from similar practices.
Regarding security matters, Shah reaffirmed the BJP’s commitment to combating left-wing extremism. “Terrorism and Naxalism are not democratic ways and should be eradicated,” he declared, while extending an olive branch to those willing to surrender arms.
As the election season unfolds, Shah’s statements reflect the BJP’s strategic messaging and electoral priorities, underscoring their stance on key policy issues while countering opposition narratives. With voting phases yet to come, the political landscape continues to evolve, shaped by the rhetoric and actions of major political players like Amit Shah and the BJP.