Called Lalu after his May accident, says Modi

BJP prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi Sunday stressed the need to ensure good relations in public life, recalling that he even telephoned his vocal critic, RJD chief Lalu Prasad, to inquire about his health a day after he was injured in an accident in May.

Speaking at his 'hunkar' rally here, he said that he is not like Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who did not care for courtesy in public life.

"I was well aware that Lalu used to abuse me and levelled baseless allegations against me. But I called him to wish him a speedy recovery," Modi said to applause from supporters and party workers.

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief is one of the most vocal critics of the Gujarat strongman for his role in the 2002 communal riots.

"I did not disclose it to media but Lalu did, as he was surprised by my call to him," Modi said.

Lalu Prasad was injured in the head and face when his vehicle's windshield suddenly shattered as he was going to Raghopur from here to meet victims of a fire incident. He was discharged from hospital after receiving stitches and bandages.