Shiv Sena says PM Modi's Dadri statement doesn't reflect his 'personal opinion', expresses disappointment

Highlighting controversies linked with Narendra Modi when he was Gujarat Chief Minister, the Shiv Sena on Wednesday dubbed the former's comments on the Dadri lynching case and the cancellation of Ghulam Ali concert as his 'perception', but not his 'personal opinion'.

"If our Prime Minister has indeed said this, then it is very disappointing and unfortunate. He is known all over the world for his involvement in Godhra and Ahmedabad... If it is the same Modi ji, who is saying such things, then it is very sad. I feel like his statement is that of a Prime Minister and not of our dear Narendra Modi ji," Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut told ANI here.

Raut also defended the felicitation of Shiv Sainiks who had assaulted BJP ideologue Sudheendra Kulkarni, saying that they were equal to Indian soldiers in terms of valour in taking on Pakistan every day.

"Yes, they were felicitated, because it was patriotic. The same way our soldiers fight at the border against enemies, our Shiv Saininks fought against a Pakistani supporter," Raut added.

In an interview to the Ananda Bazar Patrika, Prime Minister Narendra Modi voiced his opinion clearly for the first time over the Dadri lynching and the Ghulam Ali row, saying that indeed they were 'unfortunate' incidents, but the Centre could not be blamed as these issues were related to law and order and the concern of the state.