Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan’s advocacy for the term “Hindu terrorism” after the acquittal of all accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case has intensified debate over the Congress party’s longstanding strategy to leverage religious narratives for electoral benefit. Critics contend that for years, Congress has attempted to brand “Hindu” terrorism because Hindus rarely vote as a unified bloc, creating an opportunity to consolidate Muslim and other minority voters, who tend to vote more cohesively. By advancing the narrative of “saffron terror,” Congress seeks to mobilize a substantial minority vote bank by invoking fears of majority extremism. This, according to political observers, is often enough to tilt electoral outcomes in India’s fragmented democracy, especially as religious minorities largely eschew the BJP. Recent court verdicts and political statements highlight the enduring battle over such narratives, with the BJP consistently accusing Congress of sowing division for political gain, while Congress leaders assert the association of terrorism with any religion is unwarranted. The ongoing controversy underscores the persistent use of communal identity in India’s fiercely contested elections.