Removing Modi high command's privilege, says Rana

After all the aggressive statements and several rounds of talks with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) high command seeking the removal of chief minister Narendra Modi, the rebels seem to have mellowed down with former Union textile minister Kashiram Rana saying the issue of leadership change in the state is an internal party matter.

Rana was addressing a press meet on Saturday to give details about the various programmes planned by BJP to mark the completion of its 25 years.

"The issue of leadership change in Gujarat is an internal issue of the BJP. We have placed our demands before the party high command and, hence, it would not be appropriate to comment on it at this juncture," the former union minister said.

Even Dhiru Gajera, the MLA from Surat North, who has publicly criticised the manner of functioning of Modi, and is the voice for the BJP rebels, refused to say anything.

In response to a question, Rana said, "The opposition National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has decided to boycott the parliament because the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government has failed to give proper respect to the Opposition. We do not expect any favours from the government, but the least we can expect is respect. We would continue the boycott till the government understands our point."

Earlier, Rana said, "Various programmes have been planned throughout 2005 with the aim of reaching the villages. The important achievements of BJP and events of national importance would be covered in the celebrations. May 11, the anniversary of Pokhran nuclear tests, would be observed as the National Security Day. June 23, the death anniversary of Shyamaprasad Mukherjee, another BJP icon, would be observed as the National Integration Day. "

Several other important events would be part of the celebrations."

"These programmes would be celebrated with people's partnership and would be very effective in creating a BJP wave in the country. These programmes are aimed at bringing about a social revolution among all sections of the society," he added.