Narendra Modi as PM: There is consensus in BJP, says Rajnath

Washington, July 26: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Rajnath Singh did not repeat his previous statements on Narendra Modi but once again hinted that there might be some consensus among party leaders over Prime Ministerial candidate. Without taking Gujarat Chief Minister's name, Singh on Friday, July 26 said that there is consensus within his party about its PM nominee.

Singh, during his maiden US visit, was quoted as saying, "I don't know why there is so much talk around it. The party has a consensus and I know where there is a consensus."

Singh was taking questions regarding Modi's reported popularity. 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.

Speaking to queries regarding projecting Modi for prime ministerial post, Singh recently 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."

OneIndia News