On backfoot over Modi's allegation, BJP seeks to deflect attn

"We condemn Congress party's approach in diverting and adding issues which have not been raised by the Gujarat Chief Minister (Narendra Modi). He has very clearly quoted media sources and raised a question. If you are genuinely interested in answering the question, you would say what was the amount spent," BJP spokesperson Nirmala Sitharaman said.

Modi had yesterday alleged that according to a media report, Rs 1,880 crore were spent on travel and treatment of Gandhi. However, the Gujarat Chief Minister had offered to tender a public apology hours after making the allegation if his charge was found to be false.

"If it was not Rs 1,880 crore, then what was it, just say. If money was not spent from public exchequer, say so. What stops you from answering this question," Sitharaman told reporters here.

She alleged Congress is resorting to diversionary tactics to evade answering these questions.

"We also give good wishes for the health of Sonia Gandhi but if expenses were paid from the public treasury, please clarify," the BJP spokesperson said.

Congress has dismissed Modi's charge as "falsehood" and said it is regrettable that the Gujarat Chief Minister has resorted to "blatant lies which now stands exposed after the revelations of Hisar-based RTI activist Ramesh Verma".