Bharuch, March 13 (NationPress) Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi lambasted the Opposition parties, labeling them as practitioners of “vote bank politics”, during a significant gathering at the 'Tribal Pride Convention' held in Bharuch district on Friday.

At this event, numerous leaders and affiliates from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) transitioned to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

While addressing the crowd, Sanghavi asserted that Opposition factions have consistently regarded tribal populations mainly as a vote bank.

“For decades, Congress has merely utilized the tribal community as a ‘vote bank’. In this digital era, those attempting to fragment society cannot endure the advancement of tribal peoples,” he stated.

Sanghavi emphasized that enhancing infrastructure like mobile connectivity in tribal regions would effectively combat the dissemination of false information.

“Groups like AAP and Congress are concerned that if amenities such as mobile networks reach tribal areas, their avenues for spreading misinformation will be diminished,” he remarked.

The convention, hosted in Netrang, saw a substantial turnout from the tribal community residing in the Bharuch district's vicinity.

During this gathering, former AAP candidate from Jhagadia, Urmilaben, along with several party members, officially joined the BJP.

Sanghavi acknowledged the tribal community's pivotal role in the history of the region, referring to them as the “true guardians and rightful inheritors of water, land, and forests”.

He highlighted the legacy of tribal resistance and sacrifice, mentioning that tribal societies have historically stood against foreign forces and have been integral to key historical events in India.

“History demonstrates that tribal individuals have never submitted to foreign conquering powers. Whether it was the sacrifice of Vegda Bhil for the defense of Somnath or the uprising of 1857, tribal rulers and warriors have consistently protected our motherland,” he proclaimed.

He also paid homage to the sacrifice of 1,500 Bhils led by Guru Govind, emphasizing that their legacy remains a vital part of the region's historical narrative.

Sanghavi pointed out the developmental strides made post-2014 under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asserting that initiatives like the 'Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana', sanitation projects, the 'Har Ghar Jal' initiative, and the annual financial aid of Rs 6,000 to farmers have directly benefited the populace.

“Under the stewardship of Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the state government is dedicated to establishing contemporary schools and Birsa Munda libraries in every taluka,” he added.

Speaking on political representation from the tribal sector, Sanghavi noted that the BJP has actively supported tribal leaders in significant roles, including the appointment of Ganpat Vasava as the Speaker of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, and remarked that numerous ministers in the state government hail from tribal backgrounds.

“Leaders and workers joining the BJP have done so without pursuing positions, opting instead for a development-focused political strategy,” he concluded.