From 'Sabka Saath' to 'Jo Hamare Saath': Bengal LoP Suvendu Adhikari Calls for Dissolution of BJP's Minority Wing

Leader of Opposition in West Bengal and BJP MLA, Suvendu Adhikari stirred controversy during a state executive meeting in Kolkata on Wednesday by suggesting that the BJP discard Prime Minister Narendra Modi's slogan of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" (Together with all, development for all). Adhikari asserted that the party should disband its minority wing, emphasizing on a new approach: "Jo Hamare Saath, Hum Unke Saath” (Those who are with us, we are with them).

"I had spoken about nationalist Muslims and you too had said 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' (Together with all, development for all). But I will not say this anymore. Instead, we will now say, 'Jo Hamare Saath, Hum Unke Saath'(Those who are with us, we are with them). Stop this 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. Minority Morcha is not needed,” said Adhikari.

Addressing concerns over the BJP's electoral setbacks, particularly in the recent Lok Sabha polls where its tally decreased from 18 seats to 12, Adhikari criticized the party's strategy and highlighted the need to prioritize Hindu interests while safeguarding the Constitution. He expressed dissatisfaction with the BJP's previous emphasis on inclusive development, implying a shift towards a more selective approach aligned with his new slogan.

The Leader of Opposition in Bengal later clarified that his “statement has been taken out of context.” “My statement is being taken out of context. I am clear that those who are Nationalists, stand for this Nation and Bengal, we should be with them. Those who don’t stand with us, work against the interest of Nation and Bengal, we need to expose them. Also, like Mamata Banerjee, we shouldn’t divide people in majority and minority and see them as Indians. I embody in letter and spirit, Prime Minister’s call for Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas,” posted Adhikari on social media platform “X”.

Adhikari's remarks come amidst internal party scrutiny and differing opinions within the West Bengal BJP leadership. Recently, BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar also expressed reservations about the party's reliance on central agencies and legal actions against Trinamool Congress leaders, cautioning that "electoral victories cannot be ensured through such measures alone."

The 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' slogan was introduced by Prime Minister Modi in 2014 to promote comprehensive development across India, transcending caste and religious barriers.