Network18 Exclusive: Key takeaways from Piyush Goyal's interview

Piyush Goyal emphasized the BJP's growing presence in southern states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh, predicting electoral gains and significant vote shares.

Union Minister and BJP leader Piyush Goyal in an exclusive interview with Network18 Group Editor-in-Chief Rahul Joshi, dissects Opposition narrative, Congress's manifesto, offers perspectives on national security, political alliances, reservation policies, Maharashtra politics, discusses both factions of Shiv Sena and NCP, analyzes the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar, takes a firm stance against appeasement politics, and provides insights into social welfare initiatives.

Election debut: Piyush Goyal expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contest in the Lok Sabha elections after 40 years in politics, highlighting the difference in perspective between strategizing for elections and being a candidate.

BJP's electoral prospects: Goyal asserted confidence in the BJP's ability to surpass the 400-seat mark in the elections, citing opposition disarray and BJP's performance in states like West Bengal, Odisha, and Telangana.

Southern states: Goyal emphasized the BJP's growing presence in southern states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh, predicting electoral gains and significant vote shares.

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Shift in campaign narrative: Goyal discusses the shift in campaign narrative from development and economy to issues like Hindu-Muslim relations, attributing it to the Congress's manifesto and statements made by its leaders.

Congress' manifesto: Goyal criticizes the Congress's manifesto, alleging that it promotes appeasement politics and redistribution of wealth, which he sees as divisive. Goyal likens Congress' approach to that of the Muslim League.

EVM controversy: Responding to Congress' claims of EVM manipulation, Goyal dismissed them as baseless and argued that the BJP's electoral success was a result of public support, not malpractice.

ED and CBI: Goyal rejected claims of partisan targeting by investigative agencies, asserting that cases are pursued independently, and denied BJP interference in legal matters involving its members.

Allegations of favoritism: Goyal denies claims that the BJP shields its members from legal repercussions, asserting that the law takes its own course regardless of political affiliation.

National security and India-Pakistan relations: Piyush Goyal highlights the strong stance taken by the current government regarding national security. He emphasizes the confidence and sense of security among Indians due to actions taken against terrorism, such as the Balakot strike and strengthening of armed forces.

Border security and China: Goyal attributes land loss to China during Congress's tenure and asserts the BJP's commitment to safeguarding India's borders. He praises the armed forces for their response in border confrontations and highlights investments in defense under BJP rule.

Maharashtra politics and alliances: Goyal criticizes Shiv Sena for betraying the alliance with BJP and aligning with Congress, accusing them of abandoning Hindutva principles. He predicts support for the BJP among Marathas, citing Prime Minister Modi's ability to safeguard their interests.

Allegations: Responding to allegations of being an outsider, Goyal asserts his Mumbai roots and criticizes attempts to play identity politics. Goyal condemns divisive statements and allegations, particularly those concerning the sacrifices of security personnel like Hemant Karkare.

Appeasement allegations: Goyal condemns the Congress and other parties for allegedly indulging in appeasement politics. He criticizes statements linking political issues to sensitive matters like the sacrifice of security personnel during the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

Fatwa controversy: Goyal condemns the issuance of fatwas by religious leaders, emphasizing that politics and religion should remain separate.

Slum rehabilitation and social welfare: Goyal highlights the government's commitment to slum rehabilitation and improving living conditions for low-income families. He mentions the goal of providing quality housing for slum residents while maintaining their communities.