The Congress on Monday said Narendra Modi was “demeaning” the Prime Minister’s office for alleging that party leader Mani Shankar Aiyar conspired with Pakistan to interfere in Gujarat elections.
Modi on Sunday had accused a group of Congress leaders of meeting Pakistan's High Commissioner at Aiyar's residence before the latter called him "neech". Modi said the meeting at Aiyar's residence was also attended by former Indian Vice President Hamid Ansari and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
In a press conference, Congress leader Anand Sharma condemned Modi’s speech in Palanpur, Gujarat.
Based on PM Modi’s remarks, it is clear that BJP has lost Phase 1 of Gujarat elections and PM Modi’s frustration and remarks are not befitting of a PM’s post. This is the country’s misfortune that India’s PM has continuously hurt the dignity of his post. For the first time in this country, a PM has made such callous remarks.Anand Sharma, Leader, Congress
Addressing an election rally, Modi alleged, “There was a meeting convened at Aiyar's residence where Pakistan's High Commissioner, Pakistan's Foreign Minister, Ansari and Manmohan Singh were present. The meeting lasted three hours.”
"The next day Mani Shankar said I am a 'neech'," said the Prime Minister.
Why did they have to have a meeting with Pakistani officials. Pakistan is our enemy. You (Congress) meet them and the next day call me ‘neech’. Isn’t this a thing to worry about? Does it not raise doubts? There is something dubious here, isn’t it? You should have ensured the presence of government officials at the meeting. Why are you holding meetings with our enemy neighbour in secrecy?Narendra Modi, Prime Minsiter
"Isn't calling me 'neech' insulting to Gujarat? Isn't it insulting to the country? Insulting to the government whom the people voted to power?" Modi asked.
"Why? You are in Pakistan. Why are you interested in our country's affairs? Isn't this alarming? All this and the meeting at Aiyar's residence. What is all this? My friends, you should promise me that you will root out the Congress and give a thumping victory to the BJP at every booth in Ahmedabad," Modi said.
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