New Delhi: Congress scion Rahul Gandhi’s “temple visits” in poll-bound Gujarat have brought cheers in the BJP camp. Feedback reaching the BJP suggests that the Muslim population has been left confused with Congress’ “soft Hindutva” strategy in this poll bound state.
Mostly it is the BJP which has to face criticism for trying to polarise a poll going state on the communal lines. In Gujarat, where the ruling BJP is facing a tough fight this time, crucial polls are scheduled in December. Muslims are nearly 10 percent of the total population in Gujarat whose politics has mostly been bipolar. Elections to Gujarat’s 182-seat Assembly will be held on December 9 and 14.
The BJP is now awaiting PM Modi to counter Congress’ aggressive campaign. While development is BJP’s main poll plank, the Congress is highlighting anti-incumbency and finding holes in BJP’s development model. PAAS leader Hardik Patel and Dalit leader Jignesh Mewani are also seen siding with the Congress but BJP’s poll managers feel the duo’s will dent Congress’s poll prospects.
