Narendra Modi as BJP PM candidate: Rajnath Singh clears air

Washington, July 25: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Rajnath Singh on Thursday, July 25 finally cleared air on the controversy regarding party's decision to promote Narendra Modi as PM candidate.

Earlier it was reported that Singh, during his maiden US visit, hinted that Modi could be made become the PM nominee ahead of crucial Lok Sabha election which is expected to be held in 2014.

Speaking to queries regarding projecting Modi for prime ministerial post, Rajnath Singh said, "At the suitable moment, I will call meeting of the central parliamentary board. Whatever the decision would be taken, would be on the basis of consensus."

Overruling statements on internal difference among party leaders, the BJP President said, "There is no problem on declaring a prime ministerial candidate. Till date this has been BJP's tradition that there has never been a race for this (posts of chief minister and prime minister)."

Continuing his statement, Singh added, "No doubt, I am the Chairman of the Central Parliamentary Board. But it is always by consensus that the central parliamentary board has taken a decision on chief ministerial and prime ministerial candidate."

Earlier Singh had virtually anointed Modi as its man to the top job if the party comes to power after the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

Describing Modi's nation-wide popularity, Singh said, "He is a crowd puller not only in Gujarat but also in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar - from North to South, East to West. He is one single leader with a national appeal. His popularity will help the party in the elections."

It was speculated that BJP may project Modi as its PM candidate for 2014 elections. However, senior party leader LK Advani reportedly was not in favour of the decision. The veteran leader had resigned from all crucial posts of the party when Modi was elevated as BJP election campaign committee chief.

OneIndia News