TDP backs Modi's handling of minister's remarks issue

The Telugu Desam Party, a key partner in the BJP-led NDA central government, Friday backed Prime Minister Narendar Modi over his handling of the issue of controversial remarks of the central minister Sadhvi Jyoti Niranjan.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP chief N. Chandrababu Naidu said that the issue should be closed as the PM has condemned the remarks and the minister has also apologized.

"Some people have a slip of tongue. When they repent, their apology should be accepted," Naidu said at a press conference here.

Modi Friday told Lok Sabha that the issue should be put to rest as Sadhvi has apologised. However, the logjam in parliament continued with the opposition continuing its protests.

Naidu evaded a direct reply to a query whether it was proper for a union minister to make such remarks against a section of people. "Congress also indulged in so many frauds and scams but it never said sorry," he remarked.

The chief minister refused to comment on the revival of Janata Parivar by forging unity among different parties. "Every party has to play a role. Why should I comment on them," he said.