Maharashtra election results: With 'Sajag raho' campaign, Sangh Parivar drives BJP-led juggernaut

NAGPUR: The Sangh Parivar unleashed its well-oiled machinery to power BJP-led Mahayuti to a landslide victory. The Nagpur-headquartered organisation quietly mobilised its vast network of cadres, organising over 60,000 voter meetings statewide to counter opposition narratives and consolidate support under the campaign banner - 'Sajagraho' (Be vigilant, be awake).

Deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, in an exclusive interview to TOI on Nov 6, acknowledged BJP sought Sangh's help to dispel "fake narratives" of Congress and its allies on issues like reservations, 'vote-jihad' and constitutional integrity.

Unprecedented victory, says senior RSS functionary

While officially distancing itself from political activities, the Sangh celebrated the scale of Mahayuti's triumph. "This is an unprecedented victory that ensures BJP's sway over Maharashtra. We didn't imagine Mahayuti would win a landslide victory. However, Sangh prefers to work from behind the curtains and let BJP celebrate while we focus on social work," said a top RSS functionary. The stakes were particularly high for RSS as it approaches its centenary next year. Winning Maharashtra was not just about political dominance, but also about ensuring a govt aligned with its ideological goals.

Countering divisions and ensuring Hindu unity

Sources reveal the RSS campaign aimed to counter opposition strategies that sought to fragment Hindu votes along caste and community lines. The agenda also addressed sensitive issues such as 'vote jihad' and religious conversions, without overtly echoing or endorsing BJP's slogan - 'batenge toh kitenge'. This proactive approach followed BJP's setback in LS polls, where a sharp dip in support from minority voters cost the party its majority. A senior RSS functionary remarked, "Elements trying to divide Hindus based on caste have failed. This victory reflects the people's rejection of such agendas."

VHP and RSS frontal organisations in action

Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), the second-largest organisation in the Sangh Parivar, also played a pivotal role. VHP general secretary Milind Parande confirmed their extensive campaigns encouraged voters to exercise their franchise wisely. While refraining from directly endorsing any party, VHP emphasised Hindu unity and urged voters to support candidates aligned with their cause.

Frontal organisations like Lok Jagran Manch, comprising senior citizens, conducted grassroots outreach, distributing pamphlets and staging plays to promote 100% voter participation. Although the campaign avoided naming political parties, the messaging resonated with BJP's narrative of safeguarding religious identity and cultural heritage.

While reports of Sangh-backed voter outreach are widespread, the RSS functionary denied direct involvement. "These activities are being undertaken by civil societies comprising swayamsevaks. They are working independently to raise voter awareness and promote their right to vote," he told TOI, distancing RSS and its fronts from explicit political messaging.

A resurgence of civic responsibility

One of the key objectives of RSS-led initiatives was to boost voter turnout. Using meetings, leaflets, and cultural programmes, the Sangh emphasised voting as both a right and a civic duty.

"This wasn't just about political gains. Low voter turnout is detrimental to democracy. Our campaign was focused on awakening citizens to their responsibilities," said an RSS functionary.

The quiet hand behind a public victory

Mahayuti's landslide win underscores the influence of RSS, whose meticulous groundwork and large number of cadres helped BJP consolidate Hindu votes and neutralise divisive opposition strategies. As the Sangh approaches its 100th year, its role in shaping electoral outcomes while maintaining an official distance from politics remains one of its most defining and strategic strengths. Mahayuti's success not only secures its govt in Maharashtra but also reaffirms RSS's unparalleled ability to mobilise support for its ideological vision, ensuring its continued relevance in India's political landscape.


Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.