Advani ducks PM question, says Modi not "upset with him"

Patna, Oct 13: With BJP leader LK Advani's 'Jan Chethana Yatra' going full-steam ahead in an effort to sensitize people on the black money issue and the rampant corruption in the ruling government, Advani also cleared the air on the succession war that is playing up within the BJP.

Advani appeared upbeat during the course of the yatra and expressed confidence that the NDA would come back to power in the next general elections. He added that he was thankful for the support rendered by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and added that Gujarat CM Narendra Modi was "not upset with him".

On the hot topic of the prime ministerial candidature that seem to have many takers in the party, Advani only commented, "Though I firmly believe that the NDA will come to power after next general elections, the party alone will decide on the PM nominee at the right time." He also avoided questions from the media when asked if Nitish Kumar was also in the race for the PM's post, only to reply that the objective of the yatra was to discuss corruption and inflation with the people.

On the probable elections in the country, Advani stated, "There is a possibility of early polls under the present situation because of corruption and black money."

With Modi's alleged displeasure ruling the barrage of questions posed by media persons, Advani replied, "I wonder why the media takes it as a professional duty to ask questions on Modi. There is no question of his being upset. He has blogged how happy he has been with Nitish flagging the yatra."

On being enquired if the BJP was fit to go on a campaign against corruption, when former Karnataka CM BS Yeddyurappa, was facing graft charges, Advani replied aptly, "Rather, it is all the more important to stress on probity in politics."

OneIndia News