Modi's statements are reflection of BJP leadership, not of PM: Chandy

Dubbing as extremely unfortunate Narendra Modi comparing Kerala with Somalia during one of his elections rallies in the poll-bound state, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said when the former speaks it doesn't appear that a Prime Minister is speaking because his statements are reflection of the BJP leadership.

Chandy, however, praised the Prime Minister for visiting Kollam after the temple tragedy.

Launching a frontal attack on the Centre for targeting the opposition over the alleged AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal, the Kerala Chief Minister said, "It is first instance of its type when a government at the Centre is levelling allegations against other parties."

"The Centre is capable of bringing the wrongdoers to the book, then why it is indulging in attacking opposition leaders and levelling charges against them? He is the Prime Minister and has all the powers. If anyone is involved, then he can act. The people of India expect action from the Prime Minister, not allegations," Chandy told ETV head Jagdeesh Chandra in an interview.

Talking about Prime Minister Modi, he said, "Whenever I seek appointment, he gives me appointment. He gave me patience hearing. But the decisions are yet to be taken. We want some positive decision from him... I have my own doubts on decision of the Planning Commission, whether it will help for the progress of our country in future."

When asked that the Prime Minister has been attracting huge crowd in his public meetings, he said, "He is the Prime Minister and they are organising his rallies in a big way. They are spending huge amount for rallies and election purpose."

When asked if it was right time when Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi should be give the party's command, he said, "I always remained confined to Kerala's activities and never went to higher level or discussion. But, one thing is clear that Rahul Gandhi is a capable leader. He can attract the younger generation. But it's up to the national leadership to take decision and what type of services they are expecting from Rahul Gandhi. We want Rahul very much to campaign in Kerala for us. We have fixed six meetings at six different districts."

In the meantime, Chandy also appreciated Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, saying she has the ability to connect with the people.

"She has good appeal among people, but the decision must be from higher ups. I am not commenting anything," he said.

When asked about his statement that the BJP won't get any seat in this election, Chandy said, "Today Marxist party is attacking the BJP like anything, while accusing me of having a secret pact with the BJP. That is absolutely wrong thing. Our first enemy is the BJP. We have no tie up with the BJP and won't go with them at any cost. But in 1977, the Marxist party went to the polls with the Jan Sangh. They were with a political strongman K.G. Marar. He was a candidate from Udma in Kasaragod district, which was their strong hold. However, he was defeated in spite of support of the CPM. They had fought the election jointly, but couldn't open an account in Kerala. They tried their best in every election, but Kerala's attitude is entirely different. The mind of the people of Kerala is something else. They want communal harmony. They are very strong in their beliefs. We want to continue with that harmonious atmosphere in future too. I am quite confident."

Asked if the Agusta controversy and negative propaganda would harm the Congress in Kerala, he said: "In Kerala, there is no harm to us. If there is any issue, then the present Narendra Modi Government can order an inquiry or go for any legal action. But the Prime Minister raising an allegation is a new chapter in history of Independent India.