Delhi polls: BJP looks to firm ties with sects, social organizations

NEW DELHI: BJP is reaching out to various religious sects and social organizations in a bid to garner support for itself in the upcoming assembly elections. BJP sources say they can connect with a large population of voters though these organizations as these have a significant following. While the party's initiative has been well-received by Hindu groups, it has had to address some key issues raised by minority organizations.

With East Delhi MP Maheish Girri as its in-charge, Delhi BJP's religious and social institution committee has started meeting heads and representatives of various sects and bodies. "We have requested them to tell members about our progressive agenda," Girri said.

Sources say these religious and social organizations can not only help BJP expand its support base but even prove to be a game-changer. In Haryana, for example, the party benefited from its ties with Dera Sacha Sauda, an influential group.

Girri said he has met members of late Ashutoshji Maharaj's Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's Art of Living Foundation, Dera Sacha Sauda, Manav Uthan Sewa Samiti, Ramlila Maha Sangh and Kawaria Samiti as well as the mahant of Kalkaji temple and yoga guru Ramdev. The team has also met National Federation of Christian Unity, Church of North India, Irfan Salmani Dehlvi of Jamat-e-Salmani Trust Delhi, Maulana Ejaz Urfi Qasmi of All India Tanzem Ulma-e-Haq and Maulana Anwar Ali Qasmi of All India Mushawrati Council.

Following recent controversies regarding 'ghar-wapsi' and hate speeches made by some senior BJP members, the party has had to address some crucial issues. Members of the minority communities said BJP should give them greater representation in the assembly and address other pressing concerns like religious conversions. "As a party, BJP has clearly said it doesn't encourage hate speech. We have also been saying from the start that we are in favour of anti-conversion Bill. All communities should come together on this," Girri said.

On Friday, BJP will organize a Sadhavna rally from Shaheedi Park to Rajghat. Sources said the rally is being organized to pray for peace in the city.