BJP stir against FDI in retail with special focus on UP

The BJP Core Group of central leaders discussed the FDI in retail issue which had rocked Parliament in the on-going winter session. Though the party and the other opposition parties could not muster enough numbers to defeat the government in either House, it claims to have got a moral victory as even some UPA supporters spoke against the decision.

The main opposition wants to keep the issue alive and seek to reap its political benefits, sources said.

"BJP has decided to launch a nationwide agitation against FDI in retail decision from December 25 onwards.

There will be a special focus on Uttar Pradesh where big rallies will be held to "expose" the state's ruling SP and BSP which have "betrayed" the interest of the farmers and small traders," party general secretary Ananth Kumar told reporters.

He alleged the two regional parties have engaged in double-speak.

"SP and BSP have exhibited their dichotomy. The real culprits are not only the Congress but also SP and BSP," Kumar said.

BJP described the FDI decision as being "anti-Dalit, anti-farmers as well as anti-small traders".