Modi’s ‘Muslim quota’ remarks, EC’s innovative moves 

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As the Lok Sabha elections progress into the second phase, political parties engage in a digital battle, leveraging social media platforms to launch attacks and counterattacks through videos and memes. Here’s a snapshot of the trending topics in the political arena today.

PM Modi’s ‘Muslim quota’ remarks have stirred controversy, with the Prime Minister targeting the Congress in his campaign rallies leading up to the second phase of polls on April 26. Modi accused the Congress of attempting to extend reservation to Muslims based on religion, citing instances from the past. These remarks have drawn criticism from former allies of the BJP as well as opposition parties.

The AIADMK, a former BJP ally, expressed displeasure over Modi’s remarks, with party leader Edappadi K Palaniswami condemning the PM for his controversial comments about Muslims. Similarly, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), another former ally, criticized Modi for spreading “venom and hate” against the Muslim community, emphasizing the principles of equality and justice enshrined in the Indian Constitution.

Opposition parties, including the Congress, SP, and National Conference, seized the opportunity to slam Modi over his remarks. Congress leader P Chidambaram challenged Modi and other BJP leaders to find any evidence of “appeasement” in the Congress manifesto. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav suggested that the BJP’s election strategy is evident from their speeches, while National Conference president Farooq Abdullah denounced Modi’s divisive rhetoric.

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In the run-up to the second phase of polling, the Congress targeted Modi, highlighting the BJP’s alleged favoritism towards the Adani Group over the welfare of Indian citizens. The Congress reiterated its commitment to championing the interests of the poor, farmers, laborers, and youth, contrasting itself as the government of Indians, not Adanis.

The ongoing digital skirmish underscores the intense political competition as parties vie for voter attention and support in the lead-up to the crucial phase of the elections.