In an apparent veiled jibe at Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the opposition was still reeling the shock of the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections terming it their “weakness.”
PM Modi was addressing a thanks-giving public meeting in Renigunta organized by the Andhra Pradesh (AP) BJP on Sunday.
According to reports, he asserted his government’s commitment to accelerate work for the betterment of the states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu despite BJP failing to open accounts in these southern states.
“Given the huge mandate we got, some people think expectations and aspirations (on the government) have increased. They also wonder what can Modi do. We should see it as India’s fortune and a great opportunity. I see it as a guarantee for a brighter India,” he said.
His jibe is seen as a retaliation to the recent comments by Gandhi in Wayanad, his parliamentary constituency. Gandhi, who won by a massive margin from this seat, had accused PM Modi’s election campaign of being filled with “lies, poison, and hatred” during his recent visit here.
Hitting back, PM Modi said, “That is their weakness. For us, the chapter of elections has ended. A new chapter of serving the 130 crore people of the country has opened for us.”
Highlighting that his strong government is at the centre, he took note of YSR Congress Chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s comeback with a full majority in the state. He hoped the state would witness a steady road towards development under Reddy’s leadership.
“AP has infinite possibilities for growth. We will fully extend all co-operation from the Centre for the development of the state,” the PM assured.
PM Modi mentioned Tamil Nadu along with AP and thanked people of these states for playing a pivotal role in strengthening democracy.
“Whether or not we secured victory here, our objective always is to serve the people. We (BJP) are a dedicated system of workers and I am a part of it. Even after the elections, we will not lower our efforts to ensure the happiness of people and betterment of their lives. We will increase our efforts in this regard at the Centre and will especially show it in AP and Tamil Nadu,” he added.
He stressed on the fact that he has confidence in 130 crore Indians.
“With their contribution and support, I am confident we can give a new direction to the country,” he said.
Reminding people of ‘two good occasions’ in reference to the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in October 2019 and the 75th anniversary of the nation’s Independence in 2022, he said, “These are two important occasions that could be inspirational, which the country should not miss. They give us a chance to recall the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and take a pledge for doing something for the country.”
Seeking the blessings of Lord Venkateswara to realize the dreams of 130 crore people of India, the PM highlighted the need for states and centre to work in coordination with each other.
“When we dream of a New India, we also wish that every state also should progress in the same manner. Only then can we build a New India. Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, jisme raajyom ka bhi saath, jan saamanya ka bhi saath. Jan saamanya ka vikas, rajyom ka vikas. We are moving ahead with that determination towards making this a reality,” he divulged.
“If that happens, I am sure, we will succeed in the right earnest and prosper.”
He stressed on the fact that winning elections was an electoral aim and that winning people’s hearts throughout 365 days is their constant endeavor. He also specified that his government is focussed on building the nation and not the party.
“This is not our nature, nor are we used to it. In the last five years, people have seen a government that is solely committed to the welfare of Bharat Mata. Hence, they gave us a renewed mandate to serve them for the second time,” he added.
Earlier on Sunday, Jagan Mohan Reddy had accompanied the PM during his visit to Tirumala shrine.
