(rptg, correcting slug, names in para two)

Bhopal, Sep 21 (UNI) Several star BJP campaigners were absent during the inaugural of the three-day BJP national executive that got underway in the state capital today.

Those conspicuous by their absence included former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi, actress Hema Malini, former test cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu and senior Gujarat leader Keshubhai Patel.

BJP President Rajnath Singh said they could not come because of some reason. However, there was no specific cause for their absence.

Party sources said about 200 leaders were expected to take part.

However, only 180 party leaders arrived.

UNI