I Am from Kashi, Indestructible: PM Modi On Mamata Banerjee's 'Expiry Date' Remark

Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded on Friday to Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee's remark that the BJP government at the Centre will expire on June 4. In an interview with NDTV, Modi acknowledged Banerjee's statement, stating that the current government's term would indeed end then. He added confidently that he and the BJP would form a new government after the elections.

"She is speaking the truth. This government has to end on June 4, then a new government has to be formed, right?" Modi told NDTV. "It is constitutional that the term of the government has to end; there is nothing political in it. After the elections, a new government will be formed, and we will form it."

When asked about Banerjee potentially setting a "new expiry date," the prime minister humorously remarked, "Arre aisa hai ki main avinashi hoon ji, main Kashi ka hoon, Kashi to avinashi hai (I am indestructible. I am from Kashi. Kashi is indestructible)."

In the interview, Modi also emphasized that he does not view the Opposition as his enemies. He expressed a desire to work collaboratively with Opposition leaders and learn from the positive aspects of their long governance.

"I never challenge and I want to take them along. I do not underestimate anyone. They have formed the government for 60-70 years. I want to learn the good things that they did. I do not consider the Opposition as the enemy," Modi told NDTV.

The prime minister welcomed constructive criticism and advice from experienced Opposition leaders. "If they have anyone experienced who wants to advise me then I welcome it. They can say whatever they want to the media - good or bad, but if they have anything to offer for the country's good then I welcome them. I don't wish any ill upon anyone," he said.

Modi also expressed his commitment to modernizing India's governance. "I want to get rid of 'old mentality'. I cannot use traditions and laws that were made in the 18th century to build India's future in the 21st century. I want to make a change by reform, perform and transform," he concluded.