PM Modi's Bihar package 'blatant' misuse of power: CPI

New Delhi, Aug 19: Questioning timing of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement of Rs 1.25 lakh crore package for poll-bound Bihar, CPI today said the declaration appears "re-packaging" of old schemes and urged people to not get carried away by such campaign.

CPI charged BJP saying the ruling party's use of central funds for political mileage goes against federal principle of Constitution and that "it is a blatant misuse of power".

"The CPI finds it most improper on part of Modi to announce an economic package to Bihar just as the state prepares for ensuing elections to assembly.

"The Centre is unilaterally deciding packages after abolishing Planning Commission. It seems to be re-packaging of certain schemes and projects announced couple of years ago. We appeal people not to get carried away with the package," party general secretary S Sudhakar Reddy said in a statement.

Yesterday, at a government function in Arrah in Bihar, Modi announced package of a whopping Rs 1.25 lakh crore, promising that the state will touch new heights of development if the BJP is voted to power.

Reddy added it is "height of irresponsibility" on the Prime Minister's part to announce "such a huge package" without making provisions in budget and explaining from where Centre will allot sum.

If Modi thinks he can tilt votes in BJP's favour by offering "huge" package, he is going to be definitely mistaken, the former MP said.

The communist leader also hit out at Modi over his July 25 remark that there is some problem with Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar's "DNA" and added the Prime Minister "insulted" Biharis.

"It is a shame that Prime Minister is going to such low levels in election campaigns," he slammed.

Kick starting NDA's campaign for the Bihar polls in Muzaffarpur last month, Modi had accused Nitish of "back-stabbing" people of the state and alleged that there is some problem with his "DNA".

"There seems to be some problem in his DNA because the DNA of democracy is not like that. In democracy, you give respect even to your political rivals," he had said.

PTI