The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced a special outreach program aimed at engaging with Muslim, Sikh, and Christian communities by distributing festive kits called “Saugat-e-Modi” (Gifts from Prime Minister Modi) on the occasions of Eid, Baisakhi, and Easter. This initiative comes at a time when the government is facing criticism from sections of the Muslim community over the Waqf Amendment Bill, which has led to notable boycotts of political events, including an Iftar hosted by Bihar Chief Minister and BJP ally Nitish Kumar.
The timing of this outreach has drawn attention, particularly in light of upcoming elections in Bihar and the recent controversy surrounding the Waqf Amendment Bill. Prominent Muslim organizations, including the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, Imarat-e-Sharia, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, and Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, have expressed their discontent with the bill, citing concerns over minority rights. Their decision to boycott Nitish Kumar’s Iftar event was a pointed response to what they see as a departure from his previous secular stance.
Despite speculation about political motives, BJP leaders maintain that the kit distribution is part of the party’s long-standing commitment to “sabka saath, sabka vikas” (together with all, development for all). Siddiqui dismissed suggestions that the initiative was linked to elections or political controversies, emphasizing that acts of goodwill should not be viewed through a political lens. When asked about the budget for the program, he responded poetically, saying, “Saugat ki koi keemat nahi hoti” (Gifts are priceless).
The initiative has sparked a range of reactions, with some seeing it as a genuine effort at community engagement, while others question its timing. Regardless of the political implications, the outreach reflects an attempt to foster inclusivity and goodwill during significant religious celebrations, underscoring the complex intersection of politics, faith, and public sentiment in India today.