Devendra Fadnavis Defends Yogi Adityanath’s ‘Batenge to Katenge’ slogan

As Maharashtra’s assembly elections approach, a debate has sparked over Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s controversial slogan, “Batenge to Katenge,” which calls for Hindu unity. While some members of the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance have raised concerns, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has come to Yogi Adityanath’s defense, claiming there’s nothing wrong with the slogan.

Fadnavis emphasized that the slogan aligns with India’s historical experience, saying, “Look at the history of this country. Whenever we divided—into castes, states, or communities—we became slaves. The country and its people were divided, and that’s why if we divide, we will be cut.” He further questioned, “If someone says don’t divide, why object to it?”

The slogan, however, has drawn criticism from opposition leaders, who argue it has communal undertones. Fadnavis addressed the opposition’s response by pointing to Rahul Gandhi’s controversial comments during his visit to the United States. He claimed that Gandhi’s remarks about the Constitution and reservations revealed an intent to divide communities along caste lines. “The Prime Minister is right. There are 350 castes in the OBC community in Maharashtra,” he said, arguing that fragmentation of these groups would weaken their collective political power.

Fadnavis also criticized the Congress for allegedly engaging in “Vote Jihad” by selectively appealing to religious communities for votes. He highlighted that the Congress’s policies were encouraging division, citing instances where banners in support of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) made religious appeals to voters.

In a sharp remark aimed at the Congress, Fadnavis labeled the ‘Bharat Jodo’ movement as a group of anarchists, accusing them of attempting to spread chaos and weaken India. He also pointed out that the Ulema Council, which had supported the MVA, had outlined demands to revoke charges against Muslims involved in riots in Maharashtra between 2012 and 2024.

As campaigning intensifies for the November 20 Maharashtra elections, both the ruling Mahayuti and the opposition MVA are focusing on rallying support across the state. The results will be counted on November 23.