In a strategic move aimed at expanding its 'Nari Shakti' (women empowerment) poll pitch for the upcoming campaign, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had launched the "Shukriya Modi" program. This initiative, set to unfold across each of the BJP’s 14 organizational districts in Delhi, holds significance as it seeks to gather signatures from women belonging to the Muslim community in support of and expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Contextualizing the "Shukriya Modi" Initiative
The program serves as a multifaceted approach for the BJP. It not only provides a platform for women from the Muslim community to express appreciation for the government's initiatives but also aligns with the party's ongoing outreach among Pasmanda Muslims. The BJP's emphasis on 'women power' for the 2024 elections is reflected in the resurrection of its anti-Triple Talaq rhetoric, a key highlight of its previous Lok Sabha campaign.
Atif Rasheed, National Executive member of the BJP’s OBC Morcha, highlighted the broader goals of the initiative. "Whether it is the issue of Triple Talaq, the Women Reservation Act, or schemes such as the Ujjwala and Lakhpati Didi schemes, women from the Muslim community are among the majority of beneficiaries of the PM’s efforts," he said.
Connecting with Pasmanda Muslims: A Strategic Shift in BJP's Approach
The BJP's attention to Pasmanda Muslims, as emphasized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marks a significant departure from traditional political narratives. The term 'Pasmanda' refers to the marginalized sections within the Muslim community in India, pointing towards the existence of a caste system that has often been overlooked or denied.
The Prime Minister's call, made during the BJP's national executive meeting in July 2022, urged party members to explore new electoral combinations and open up to the Pasmanda Muslims. This move has brought the Pasmandas into the national spotlight, challenging the prevailing myth that there is no caste system within the Muslim community.
Keshav Prasad Maurya, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, had previously referred to the backward castes among Muslims ahead of the state elections in February 2022. Following the BJP's victory in the state, the party appointed several Muslims from lower castes to key positions, signaling a commitment to inclusivity.
Historical Context: The Congress Legacy and BJP's Departure
The historical context of the BJP's outreach efforts includes a critique of the Congress party's approach. The policy of appeasement by the Congress, particularly towards the influential Muslim clergy and the upper crust of the Muslim community, persisted even after India gained independence. This policy, purportedly aimed at countering the British policy of divide and rule, resulted in the ordinary Muslim populace being used merely as a vote bank.
The Sachar Committee, appointed by the government, shed light on the disparities within the Muslim community, with ordinary Muslims being denied the benefits of development, which were often usurped by the upper crust referred to as the Ashrafs. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recognition of the Pasmanda Muslims and his focus on their issues can be seen as an attempt to rectify historical injustices and address the neglected sections within the Muslim community.
"Shukriya Modi" as a Grassroots Initiative:
The "Shukriya Modi" program is not merely a symbolic gesture but a grassroots-level initiative that aims to connect with beneficiaries of central welfare schemes. The gathering of signatures from women belonging to the Muslim community serves a dual purpose – expressing gratitude for initiatives like Ujjwala and Lakhpati Didi schemes and showcasing the tangible benefits of PM Modi’s efforts.
Anish Abbasi, Delhi BJP Minority Morcha president, detailed the logistical aspects of the program. Hundreds of beneficiaries from the Muslim community across the city are expected to participate in the event, scheduled outside the DM Office in Daryaganj. The signatures collected will be collated and submitted to the District Magistrate, requesting their forwarding to the Prime Minister.
"Nari Shakti" and the BJP's Vision:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's repeated references to 'Nari Shakti' underscore the BJP's commitment to empowering women as a unifying force. In various instances, including his address after the BJP's sweeping victories in the Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh Assembly polls, the PM has positioned 'Nari Shakti' among the "four castes" in which he believes.
The BJP's approach to women empowerment transcends religious and caste lines. PM Modi's statement during a conversation with beneficiaries of central welfare schemes reinforces this perspective, stating, "Mahila is one single caste… This caste is so big they can take on any challenge."
Conclusion: Shaping Political Narratives and Empowering Marginalized Voices:
The "Shukriya Modi" initiative represents a unique blend of political strategy, grassroots outreach, and a commitment to inclusive governance. By focusing on women from the Muslim community and connecting with the Pasmanda Muslims, the BJP is navigating complex political frontiers. This initiative, along with the broader 'Nari Shakti' campaign, showcases the party's vision of women empowerment as a unifying force, cutting across religious and caste lines.
As the program continues and political narratives evolve, the success of the BJP's outreach efforts will be measured not just in signatures gathered but in the tangible impact on the lives of those at the grassroots level. The recognition of Pasmanda Muslims and the efforts to empower women from all backgrounds hold the potential to reshape political dynamics, giving voice to the marginalized and fostering a more inclusive political landscape.
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