The myth of a monolithic Muslim vote bank in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath said that the state will witness a “80% versus 20%” election and that the BJP will retain power in the state

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath said that the state will witness a “80% versus 20%” election and that the BJP will retain power in the state. The opposition has alleged that Yogi’s comments seek to create a polarisation between the majority Hindu and minority Muslim population in the state. This comment notwithstanding, it is a fact that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is actively seeking a consolidation of the (otherwise caste-splintered) Hindu vote. Existence of Muslim consolidation on the other side is often used to justify this appeal. Are polemics about a Muslim consolidation factually correct? Looking at data on past electoral representation of Muslims in Uttar Pradesh may answer this question.

The opposition has alleged that Yogi’s comments seek to create a polarisation between the majority Hindu and minority Muslim population in the state.(Picture for representation)