BJP is facing challenges in Maharashtra as it appears that the Dalits and Muslims are supporting the Congress-Sena-NCP (SP) alliance. The BJP has been dealing with remarks made by its Karnataka leader Anantkumar Hegde, who suggested that the party would need a two-thirds majority to change the Constitution. This comment has been used by opposition parties in Maharashtra to create a narrative that BJP would remove reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs if it comes to power. The BJP has tried to counter this by highlighting ‘Congress injustice’ on SCs, STs, and OBCs, and pointing to Karnataka’s reservation for Muslims under the OBC quota. However, there has been a consolidation of Scheduled Caste community votes against the BJP in the state. Several instances have shown Dalit candidates withdrawing from the contest to prevent the division of Dalit votes that may benefit the BJP. There is enough consolidation among Dalits and Muslims to hurt the BJP’s chances in various constituencies. The Muslim votes in at least 14 constituencies could significantly influence the outcome of the elections. From calls being made in mosques urging the community to vote against the BJP, to claims of fatwas being issued against the party, there are efforts to create a ‘fear factor’ among Dalits and Muslims to sway their votes towards the Congress and its allies. Overall, the BJP faces an uphill battle in Maharashtra as it tries to secure the support of Dalits and Muslims amidst the strong alliance formed by the Congress, Shiv Sena, and NCP (SP).
