Coalition dharma prevented BJP from expanding in Punjab: Narendra Modi

PM Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an interview to Dainik Jagran, underlined how the Bharatiya Janata Party was bound by the coalition dharma in Punjab for almost three decades and how the arrangement prevented the saffron party from expanding its base in the hinterland of the border state.

Replying to a question on why the saffron party was unable to establish its roots in the state, PM Modi unequivocally cited the compulsions of ‘alliance politics’ for not being able to establish its base in Punjab’s hinterland.

Speaking on the BJP's vision for the country, the PM said, BJP is going among the people with the vision of development of the country and Punjab. The work done by the BJP government at the Centre has increased people's confidence in the BJP. "On the one hand, before the people, we have our 10-year track record and on the other hand, we have the experience of corruption, drug problem, poor condition of infrastructure and poor law and order," stated PM.

Reflecting on the way parties (AAP & Congress) are fighting the polls in Punjab, the PM said, Congress and Aam Aadmi Party are contesting elections separately in Punjab, but they are campaigning together in Delhi and other parts of the country. In such a situation, he (AAP chief) can say whatever he wants to the people of Punjab, the public knows his reality.

PM reiterated that following a dual policy has dented AAP's credibility in the state. He also expressed confidence that people of Punjab will give an overwhelming mandate to the BJP.