Modi Seizes on Rahul Gandhi's "Shakti" Remark, Projects Himself as Protector of Women

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the INDIA group of attempting to "destroy Shakti," whose embodiment was "mothers and sisters," on Monday, capitalizing on Rahul Gandhi's remark that "Modi is a mask who works for a shakti."

While speaking at an election rally in Jagtial, Telangana, Modi made reference to the Sunday INDIA event in Mumbai and asserted that the Opposition alliance had stated that their "fight was against Shakti" and that they intended to "finish/destroy Shakti." Modi did not specifically mention Rahul.

On Sunday, the INDI alliance held a rally in Mumbai. At the event, they unveiled their manifesto. They claimed that their battle was against "Shakti" in Shivaji Park, Mumbai, Modi said.

Every mother and daughter are, in my opinion, manifestations of "Shakti." Meri matao-behno, aapko main karta hoon puja karta hoon Shakti ke roop mein. My moms and sisters, you are the embodiment of "Shakti," and I revere you as such. Main Bharat Maa ka pujari hoon. I adore Mother India)," he continued.

Rahul had declared that Modi was only a façade and that the true struggle was against the "shakti" (power) that ruled the system while speaking at the INDIA rally at Shivaji Park. "Modi is only a front. He is a façade. In an apparent jab at certain capitalists, Rahul had stated, "His job is to deflect attention so that the nation's wealth is looted."

In his "poll manifesto," Modi transformed this into the INDIA bloc, promising to "finish/destroy Shakti," and he proceeded to portray himself as the rescuer of "mothers and sisters."

"In its manifesto, the INDI alliance pledged to demolish or end "Shakti." I agree to take up their challenge. "I'll give my life to ensure the safety of mothers and sisters," he declared among shouts of "Modi, Modi."

This is the second time in this election season that Modi has used a statement made by a prominent member of the opposition to craft his campaign slogan. He had grabbed hold of RJD leader Lalu Prasad's remark that "Modi has no family" at the beginning of this month and created the catchphrase "Mera Bharat, Mera Parivar" (My India, My Family). Based on that, the BJP composed a campaign song, which Modi plays at every event to emphasize that "140 crore countrymen were his family."

During his second rally of the day in Shivamogga, Karnataka, Modi brought up the "Shakti" topic once more, accusing the Congress of doing whatever it takes to seize power. He urged supporters to cast their ballots with the intention of unseating the Congress in every state Lok Sabha seat, saying, "On June 4, they (Congress) will get the result of daring Shakti."

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