Modi's close aide denied US visa

Ahmedabad, Aug 24: The US embassy has denied a visa to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi's close aide and BJP spokesperson Purshottam Rupala.

Mr Rupala confirmed the incident saying he had applied for a visa to attend the three-day World Gujarati Sammelan, to be held at New Jersey from September one. But the Embassy rejected his application without giving any reasons.

Apart from Mr Rupala, many political leaders, spiritual gurus and business leaders from the state have received invitations from the Association of Indians of North America (AINA). More than 30,000 Gujaratis from around the world are expected to attend the meet.

Last year, the US government had denied a visa to the Chief Minister as rights groups had protested against him, blaming him for the 2002 communal riots in Gujarat.

UNI