Is BJP Fueling Fear Through Divisive Narratives Again..

Punjab : Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of relying on divisive politics for electoral gains. Speaking at a public event in Punjab, the former Union Minister said that the BJP’s entire political narrative revolves around “Pakistan, Musalman (Muslim), and Khalistan.”

According to Badal, the BJP has been using these sensitive issues not for national security but to manipulate public sentiment and polarize voters along religious and communal lines. She alleged that the saffron party was deliberately invoking fear and hatred to distract the public from real issues like inflation, unemployment, and farmers’ distress.

“Every time elections come, they bring up Pakistan, talk about Muslims, or raise the bogey of Khalistan. This isn’t nationalism – it’s an attempt to divide and distract,” she said.

Badal also accused the BJP of trying to tarnish the image of Punjab and its youth by labeling them as extremists or anti-national. She said such narratives were damaging the unity of the nation and creating mistrust among communities. “Punjab has always stood at the frontlines of India’s defense and sacrifice. Linking it repeatedly with Khalistan is an insult to our legacy,” she added.

The SAD leader’s remarks come amid rising political tension in Punjab, where multiple parties are vying for dominance ahead of upcoming elections. Her comments are being seen as an effort to reclaim SAD’s regional narrative and counter the BJP’s growing footprint in the state.

Badal also reminded the audience of the long-standing alliance SAD once shared with the BJP but emphasized that the two parties part ways over the controversial farm laws, which sparked a nationwide protest. “We stood with our farmers and chose to walk out of power, unlike the BJP that turned its back on them,” she said.

Political observers believe this statement signals SAD’s intention to position itself as the protector of Punjab’s identity and secular values, especially in a state with a sensitive socio-religious balance.

While the BJP has not officially responded to Harsimrat Badal’s comments, party sources dismissed them as political rhetoric aimed at reviving SAD’s declining influence. They stated that BJP’s focus has always been on national integrity and security.

However, the remarks have sparked debate across political and public forums. Critics of the BJP agree with Badal’s views, accusing the party of using communal fear as a political strategy. On the other hand, BJP supporters argue that raising national security concerns does not amount to communalism.

As the election season draws closer, such statements are expected to intensify the political narrative in Punjab. Whether Harsimrat Badal’s attack strikes a chord with voters or further polarizes opinion remains to be seen.