by Sudhanshu Roy 13 December 2023
The recent assembly elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana have marked a significant victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), securing key seats in these states. However, amidst the celebration of electoral success, concerns have emerged regarding the potential promulgation of communal policies, as evidenced by the actions of newly elected MLA Balmukund Acharya in Rajasthan. His abrupt shutdown of shops selling non-vegetarian food and subsequent apology raises questions about the direction these states may take under BJP governance.
Balmukund Acharya, the BJP MLA from Hawa Mahal constituency in Rajasthan, stirred controversy by ordering the closure of shops selling non-vegetarian products immediately after his election. The move was met with resistance, mainly because the majority of butchers in the area are of Muslim descent, leading to accusations of religious bias. Videos depicting heated exchanges between Acharya, municipal officials, and the police quickly went viral, exposing the tensions surrounding his actions.
In response to the backlash, Acharya issued an apology, stating that his intention was merely to request officials to ensure that food was covered to prevent unpleasant odors. He claimed the emphasis was on maintaining cleanliness rather than targeting any specific religious or ethnic group. While the apology attempts to downplay the incident, the underlying issue of spiritual sensitivity and potential discrimination cannot be ignored. Despite the subsequent apology, Acharya’s actions raise concerns about the potential for communal undertones in the policies enacted by the BJP in these states. The use of slogans like ‘Jai Shree Ram’ during the confrontation hints at a broader ideological stance that could prioritize one community over another, undermining the principles of secularism and religious harmony.
The People’s Union of Civil Liberties released a statement highlighting the absence of any legal basis for Acharya’s actions. The Street Vendors Act, which regulates street vending, does not make distinctions between vegetarian and non-vegetarian products. The statement emphasizes the importance of following due legal processes and expresses concern about an elected representative taking the law into his own hands. Political analysts, such as Sunny Sebastian, describe Acharya’s actions as unprecedented in Rajasthan. They suggest that it might be an individualistic move rather than a planned action by the party. However, the incident raises questions about the BJP’s internal dynamics and whether such actions reflect a broader trend within the party.
As the BJP secures victories in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana, concerns about promulgating communal policies become more pronounced. The incident in Hawa Mahal constituency is not an isolated event but indicative of a potential shift in the political landscape. The BJP’s commitment to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi should not be at the expense of religious harmony and the protection of individual rights. While Acharya’s actions may have been seen as an individual act, the involvement of senior leaders cannot be ruled out. It is crucial for the party’s leadership to address such incidents promptly and unequivocally condemn any actions that may promote communal discord. The BJP’s success should be built on inclusive governance rather than policies that deepen religious divides. The incident in Rajasthan underscores the importance of fostering an inclusive governance model. The BJP, as a ruling party, must prioritize policies that benefit all communities, irrespective of religious or ethnic background. Inclusivity promotes social cohesion, economic development, and a harmonious coexistence that is vital for the progress of any state.
As the BJP celebrates its triumph in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana, the incident involving MLA Balmukund Acharya raises legitimate concerns about the potential for communal policies in these states. While the party’s leadership may distance itself from individual actions, it is essential to acknowledge the broader implications and work towards fostering a political environment that upholds the values of secularism and inclusivity. The success of any state lies in the ability to harmonize diverse communities and ensure equal opportunities for all citizens, irrespective of their religious beliefs. The BJP must prioritize inclusive governance to truly realize the vision of collective development espoused by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.