In a statement that has stirred political debate in Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis criticized Maulana Khalilur Rehman Sajjad Nomani for allegedly calling for the boycott of Muslims who voted for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Lok Sabha elections. Fadnavis stated that in a viral video, Nomani urged for "vote jihad," naming opposition leaders Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray, and Rahul Gandhi as its leaders.

Fadnavis Condemns Polarizing Politics

Fadnavis said:

"This is an unprecedented level of polarization in politics. Congress and its allies, driven by the fear of electoral defeat, are resorting to divisive tactics that threaten to divide society and the nation."

The remarks have escalated tensions in the lead-up to the Maharashtra Assembly elections as political leaders intensify their campaigns.

Kirit Somaiya Files Complaint Against Maulana Nomani

BJP leader Kirit Somaiya lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission against Nomani, accusing him of spreading hate speech and promoting religious division. Somaiya alleged that Nomani’s speeches encourage social ostracization of Muslims who support the BJP.

Somaiya stated:

"Maulana Nomani is inciting hatred by promoting 'vote jihad.' He is calling for the boycott of Muslims who vote for BJP and urging people to consider leaders like Rahul Gandhi, Sharad Pawar, and Uddhav Thackeray as champions of this so-called jihad."

Allegations of Hate Speech

The controversy stems from Maulana Nomani's alleged statements that:

• Advocate social ostracization of Muslims voting for BJP.
• Refer to 'vote jihad' as a strategy supported by opposition leaders.
• Warn Muslims against voting for BJP to prevent its return to power.

Somaiya demanded strict action from the Election Commission, stating that such divisive speeches could incite communal tensions and disrupt social harmony.

Political Reactions and Rising Tensions

The term "vote jihad" has ignited a war of words among political parties:

• BJP leaders, including Fadnavis, have criticized Congress and its allies for encouraging divisive rhetoric.
• Opposition leaders have yet to comment on their alleged involvement in the so-called vote jihad narrative.

Fadnavis highlighted the need for political campaigns to focus on development and governance rather than fostering divisions.

Election Commission's Role

The BJP has urged the Election Commission to take immediate and stringent action against hate speech in election campaigns. They emphasized that such narratives not only polarize voters but also undermine democratic values.

As Maharashtra gears up for its Assembly elections, the controversy over Maulana Nomani’s alleged remarks underscores the growing tensions between political parties. With complaints filed and debates intensifying, the Election Commission’s response will be crucial in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible political discourse in fostering unity and upholding democratic principles.

Shocking!

Maulana Sajjan Nomani now asks for boycott of Non Muzlims in Maharashtra!

Maulana Sajjad Nomani is supportive of MVA!

This is Talibani Thought!

This is Anti Constitutional!

Save Maharashtra!#MaharahstraElection2024 pic.twitter.com/7pJ1e0ZJYy

— Pradeep Bhandari(प्रदीप भंडारी)🇮🇳 (@pradip103) November 15, 2024