The BJP and its coalition partner in Maharashtra, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), were involved in a verbal dispute regarding a piece in Organizer, a publication closely associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. The article voiced criticism against the BJP for participating in the elections alongside Ajit Pawar’s NCP.
A senior RSS leader expressed skepticism about the BJP’s decision to form an alliance with the Ajit Pawar-led NCP in an article, referring to it as “ill-advised”.
RSS’ Ratan Sharda wrote in the article “Why was this ill-advised step taken? BJP supporters were hurt because they had fought against this Congress ideology for years and were persecuted. In a single stroke, BJP reduced its brand value.”
He added, “Maharashtra is a prime example of unnecessary politicking and avoidable manipulations. Well-performing parliamentarians were ignored to accommodate such latecomers.”
Rajya Sabha MP and senior NCP leader Praful Patel though said that the article shouldn’t be seen as a sign that all is not well between the two allies. “An article in a weekly does not reflect the BJP’s stance. It should not be interpreted in that manner,” he said.
NCP youth wing leader Sooraj Chavan criticized the situation, noting that while the BJP attributes success to the efforts of the RSS, any failure is often attributed to Ajit Pawar.
Hitting back, BJP leader Pravin Darekar said, “The RSS is like a father figure to all of us. There is no need to make comments about the RSS. Sooraj Chavan should not have rushed to comment on the organization. The BJP has not commented against the NCP. It would be better if such issues are discussed during NDA meetings.”
The NCP’s discord with the new government began when they refused a Minister of State position. Ajit Pawar and Praful Patel sought cabinet berths but declined the offer. The NCP argues that Patel, a former cabinet minister, is too senior for a junior post. Pawar mentioned they are willing to wait for a cabinet berth.
In the recent Lok Sabha polls, the BJP‘s seat count dropped to 240 from 303 in 2019 and 282 in 2014. Conversely, the Congress saw a notable increase, securing 99 seats compared to 52 in 2019 and 44 in 2014. The INDIA bloc surpassed 230 seats, challenging expectations and defying exit polls.
