Why BJP preferred social engineering to religious divide in Telangana?

The BJP leadership, it appears, has almost shelved the plans to release the controversial film Razakar, produced by its leader and Bhongir MLA candidate Gudur Narayan Reddy ahead of the 2023 assembly elections. The film, which reportedly has explosive content dealing with the atrocities of the Razakars, could have started a new debate in the state and this could have ultimately helped the party in polarising the voters.

However, the producers were reportedly advised not to press for the release of the film at this juncture. The party’s thinking heads feel that the film’s release at this juncture could actually help the reverse polarisation of the Muslim voters against the BJP. The whole debate might actually harm the BJP. The MIM, whose volunteers back in late 1940s have unleashed a major pogrom on the silent majority, has already lodged a protest against the release of even the trailer.

The party leadership felt that instead of focusing on the Hindu-Muslim issue, emphasis should be laid on the caste calculus. The BJP is following the triple M strategy of wooing Mudirajs, Munnuru Kapus and Madagas in addition to its traditional vote bank. Talking about Razakar could actually push this social engineering effort to the background.

Another issue that the party’s thinking heads felt was that the release at this stage may not get the desired effect. The film is meant to spur a debate and that is not possible during the time of elections, where several other issues take precedence. It can happen after the assembly elections and could certainly benefit the BJP for the Lok Sabha elections.

Also, producer Gudur Narayana Reddy is contesting on BJP ticket from Bhongir. Release of the film at this stage could only divert his attention from the campaign. Hence the unit has reportedly deferred releasing the film at this stage.