Nation Wants To Know/ ‘Voters Prioritise National Politics Over Caste’: Fadnavis Blasts Rahul Gandhi’s Divisive Politics

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis believes that while caste politics may play a role in some elections, but, it cannot be relied upon for long-term electoral success. Slamming Rahul Gandhi ’s divisive politics, Fadnavis while speaking to Republic TV's Editor-in-Chief  Arnab Goswami in Nation Wants to Know Segment emphasized that voters prioritize national issues, while the politicians tend to be more caste-conscious than voters these days. 

Fadnavis criticized Rahul Gandhi's approach, asserting that his strategies aim to maintain divisions within the country. “Caste politics is temporary; it occurs during certain elections, but you cannot solely depend on it to win,” he said. 

The BJP leader reflected on the political landscape of the early 1990s when leaders like Lalu Prasad Yadav and Mulayam Singh Yadav emphasized social engineering over development. “For ten years, they ran on this model, but they faced a setback when a development-focused politics emerged,” he explained. 

Fadnavis noted that states promoting growth were more successful, highlighting Prime Minister Modi’s introduction of development politics following the UPA's decade in power.

Voters prioritise national issues 

Fadnavis asserted that, in general, the Indian populace favours development over caste-based politics. “However, caste does play a role in some cases,” he acknowledged, suggesting that while politicians often focus on caste, voters are more inclined towards nationalist sentiments. “Politicians tend to be more caste-conscious than voters,” he added, suggesting that voters prioritise national issues.

When asked by Arnab Goswami why politicians invest time in caste-based strategies if they yield little return, Fadnavis responded, “There is a significant return. Politicians know how to keep people divided.” He criticized Rahul Gandhi ’s approach, asserting that his strategies aim to maintain divisions within the country.

Fadnavis describes Rahul Gandhi ’s mindset as ‘urban naxal’ 

Fadnavis described Gandhi's mindset as “urban naxal” and accused him of promoting negativity instead of fostering a positive outlook. 

He concluded by labeling Gandhi as “confused,” noting his inconsistent statements on various issues.