'BJP will not allow the ‘vikas yatra’ to stop', says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a victory speech after the stupendous performance in Karnataka assemble elections, thanked people of Karnataka and assured the people of Karnataka that BJP will not allow the 'vikas yatra' to stop.

At the outset, PM Modi paid condolences to the people died in Varanasi tragedy. PM said, "I am happy about Karnataka's victory but on the other hand, I am saddened by the loss of lives in Varanasi. I extend my condolences to the families of the deceased and assure that the government will do whatever it can to support these families."

"The BJP workers have worked very hard in Karnataka, I salute them. How one can win elections by organisational skills and hard work is amazing," said PM Modi.

About his emotional connection with southern state, PM Modi said, "They say BJP is a party of Hindi speaking states. Are Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra states in North East Hindi speaking states? No, BJP represents India. There was no barrier between people of Karnataka and me. I'll always cherish the affection I received from them."

With reference to violence during panchayat polls, he said, " Violence that erupted in West Bengal during Panchayat Polls, was directed towards murdering democracy in the country. Election workers and innocent civilians were killed, this is serious."

"People weren't allowed to file nominations. It isn't only BJP people who suffered. People from all the leading parties except the one that rules Bengal suffered. This is serious. A land as great as West Bengal has to see such sights, it is unfortunate," he added.