Wed Nov 20 08:22:13 UTC 2024: ## BJP Minister Gadkari Defends Controversial “Batenge To Katenge” Slogan

**Mumbai, India –** Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has defended the BJP’s controversial “Batenge to Katenge” (We will fight, and we will win) slogan, describing it as a call for unity against terrorism and not a communal message targeting any minority group. The slogan, initially used by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and subsequently met with criticism, has been a point of contention in the ongoing Maharashtra and Jharkhand state elections.

Gadkari, in an exclusive interview with NDTV, stated the slogan reflects the BJP’s commitment to transcend sectarian, religious, and linguistic divisions, emphasizing a unified Indian identity in the fight against terrorism. He criticized the Congress party for spreading what he called a false narrative during the recent national elections, claiming they falsely alleged that the BJP would rewrite the Constitution if they won over 400 Lok Sabha seats.

The “Batenge to Katenge” slogan, initially interpreted as a threat, sparked internal divisions within the BJP, with some leaders, including Pankaja Munde and Ashok Chavan, expressing reservations. Even within the ruling Mahayuti alliance, Ajit Pawar of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) criticized the slogan as inappropriate. In response to the backlash, the slogan was later softened to “Ek ho to safe hain” (United we are safe).

Gadkari also addressed allegations of bitcoin fraud against NCP leader Supriya Sule, downplaying their significance in the context of the elections and emphasizing the Shinde government’s performance as the key issue for voters. Sule has denied the allegations and filed complaints with the Election Commission and Cyber Cell.

Regarding the selection of the next Maharashtra Chief Minister, Gadkari stated that the decision would be made by the BJP’s top leadership after the election results are announced on Saturday. Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and several other constituencies held elections today.

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