India elections: Madrasa modernization, promotion of Urdu on BJP agenda

indiatimes.com

BJP has tried to reassure minorities by promising security, promotion of education, modernization of madrasas and promotion of Urdu as well as setting up of a mechanism for promoting inter-faith conversation.

The party's manifesto also sought to celebrate India's diversity, saying it was the country's biggest strength.

It sought to address the concern about communal violence by promising a "peaceful and secure environment, where there is no place for either the perpetrators or exploiters of fear". The formulation is important in view of its long-held complaint that some activists and NGOs try to stoke communal tensions and prevent the restoration of normalcy.

The manifesto, released against the backdrop of the fear of communal polarization because of Congress's wooing of controversial Shahi Imam of Delhi's Jama Masjid and BJP general secretary Amit Shah's call to Hindus in western UP to use elections to avenge humiliation, also expressed concern about poverty among Muslims.

"It is unfortunate that even after several decades of independence, a large section of minority, and especially Muslim community, continues to be stymied in poverty. BJP is committed to ensure that all communities are equal partners in India's progress as we believe India cannot progress if any segment of Indians is left behind," the manifesto said.

It talked about the spread of education, with special focus on the girl child, and the promotion of Urdu.

The proposed mechanism for facilitating inter-faith talks has been conceived with the view to promoting harmony and trust.

The manifesto said, "BJP believes that in India's unity in diversity lies its biggest strength. We cherish the depth and vibrancy that the diversity in Indian society adds to the nation. BJP is thus committed to the preservation of rich culture and heritage of India's minority communities, alongside their social and economic empowerment."