Stepping up its campaign against Narendra Modi, the Congress on Tuesday released video clips of alleged “hate speeches” by several BJP, VHP and Shiv Sena leaders and demanded their arrest.
Party spokesperson Randeep Surejewala also demanded an “apology” from Mr. Modi and action against his key aide Amit Shah and BJP leader Giriraj Singh, besides VHP leader Praveen Togadia and Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam.
Releasing a CD of the speeches by these leaders, the Congress spokesperson said that Mr. Modi’s “pseudo mask of development” was out and he and BJP were attempting to gain power at any cost.
“In their blind lust for power, Modi, BJP and the Sangh Parivar are carrying out a concerted campaign to divide the country on communal lines,” he said, adding the provocative and communal speeches are part of a “design and conspiracy”.
“It is a political agenda being implemented by Modi and Sangh Parivar to polarise the nation on communal lines and destabilise and disrupt the very core of the country,” Mr. Surejewala said, adding that the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate was on the same dais with Mr. Kadam and was seen “relishing” the Shiv Sena leader’s speech and “applauding” him by clapping. Mr. Kadam had allegedly targeted Muslims.
The Congress attack came on a day when >Mr. Modi disapproved of “petty” statements by those claiming to be BJP’s well-wishers, saying they are deviating from the campaign.
“I disapprove (of) any such irresponsible statements and appeal to those making them to kindly refrain from doing so,” Mr. Modi said in a series of tweets as controversial statements by Mr. Togadia and Mr. Singh were denounced by rivals and allies of the BJP.
