The Nationalist Congress Party on Thursday warned that the BJP could create law and order problems in Varanasi during last two days of campaigning before the final phase of polling on May 12.
“Permission for Mr. Modi’s rally was not given due to security reasons. We condemn the BJP’s attempt to politicise the issue. Their actions show that the party is on shaky grounds in Banaras,” said Nawab Malik, chief spokesperson of the NCP.
Mr. Malik said the party fears attempts by BJP supporters to create more nuisances. “Mr. Modi was given the permission to hold Ganga Arti and another programme. Despite all this, the party is trying to play victim,” he said.
The NCP alleged that the BJP was going all out to disrupt peace in the city.
BJP prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi, who is contesting from Varanasi, was denied permission on Wednesday to hold a rally.
The BJP had warned of demonstrations in the city as well as in Delhi against the decision, accusing the Election Commission of being partial.