GG News Bureau
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, 12th Oct. BJP leader Pankaja Munde made a significant outreach to Dalits and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) on Saturday, vowing to address any grievances they may have during her annual Dussehra rally at Sawargaon Ghat, the birthplace of Sant Bhagwanbaba, a prominent figure in her Vanjari community.
Munde’s address comes ahead of the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, where she seeks to regain support after losing the Lok Sabha polls in Beed district, a hotbed of Maratha protests led by activist Manoj Jarange. During the rally, she expressed concern over the increasing caste divides in society, stating, “If a vehicle hits someone, people ask the caste of the driver. We don’t want such a society.”
The former state minister emphasized her commitment to the welfare of the poor, Dalits, and OBCs, warning that the BJP would take notice if these communities faced hardships. “To reciprocate for the respect I received, I will tour the state. The poor are waiting for good days by keeping their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership,” she asserted.
Munde, who inherited the political legacy of her late father, BJP stalwart Gopinath Munde, thanked her supporters for their respect despite her electoral setback. She also urged laborers in the sugar industry to prioritize voting over work, as the sugarcane cutting season begins in October.
The assembly elections for the 288-member Maharashtra legislature are anticipated to take place in November. The BJP is part of the ruling Mahayuti coalition, alongside the Ajit Pawar-led NCP and Shiv Sena under Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
In her remarks about the previous Lok Sabha election, where she lost to Congress candidate Bajrang Sonawane by about 6,500 votes, Munde stated, “I’m not desperate for a post… I will not abandon those who have supported me.”
NCP leader Dhananjay Munde, present at the rally, highlighted the legacy of Gopinath Munde and Pankaja Munde, emphasizing their dedication to serving the people rather than pursuing personal gain. He called for unity among all communities, encouraging attendees to stand together to ensure the success of Pankaja Munde’s initiatives and to counter any divisive forces.
