“We have traditionally been cooperating extensively on defence and security issues and this visit will build on strong ties”.
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Lal Krishna Advani and three different BJP veterans have issued a robust assertion on the party’s defeat in Bihar, demanding a radical evaluation and criticising its stand on the debacle.
Sources said the statement was actually meant for Advani who was the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate when the party lost 2009 elections.
For the second successive year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with troops today, saying the world looks at India with respect due to their valour and “character”, in comments that come against the backdrop of protests by several veterans over OROP.
India and Britain could announce deals worth 8-12 billion pounds ($12-$18 billion) during the visit, according to diplomats, with Modi keen to buy 20 more BAE Systems Hawk trainer aircraft to be made in Bengaluru. “It is the prime minister’s prerogative”.
Gadkari, a former BJP president, also demanded stringent action against those making “irresponsible” statements against Modi and Shah, who are facing flak from within the BJP and also allies for the National Democratic Alliance’s massive defeat in the key Hindi heartland state.
Mr Shah, a ruthless tactician, is often described as Mr Modi’s Karl Rove and the man behind the party’s sweeping win in last year’s general election.
It also listed out the party’s successes in various elections.
“By introducing these reforms the government is certainly spelling out why India is an attractive destination”, said Nalin Kohli, a spokesman for Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The duo have also successfully managed to sideline the old guard.
United States President Barack Obama called Prime Minister Narendra Modi through the newly established hotline on Tuesday and, among other things, the two leaders exchanged Diwali greetings. It is also a significant trip for Mr Modi himself.
More than 40 MPs, including Mr Corbyn, John McDonnell and Alex Salmond, have signed a Commons motion calling on Cameron to raise human rights with Modi when they meet.
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They have been seething against what they think is the takeover of the party and government by two upstart outsiders from Gujarat. “More and more people were becoming disenchanted with the BJP government especially with the recent rhetoric over cow protection, murders over beef and the protests against intolerance by writers, academics, economists and film stars”. “But they do have moral authority and they have been ignored”.
