RLD chief praises PM Modi for Bharat Ratna to grandfather Chaudhary Charan Singh

| Updated: 10 February, 2024 3:29 pm IST

NEW DELHI: Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) chief Jayant Chaudhary commended the central government during a session in the Rajya Sabha on Saturday for posthumously awarding Bharat Ratna to his late grandfather and former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh, hinting at a potential shift in allegiance.

Chaudhary expressed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership style resonates with that of his grandfather. “Only a government deeply rooted in the ethos of the nation could have bestowed the Bharat Ratna upon Charan Singh. The operational approach of this administration mirrors the work ethic of Charan Singh,” remarked Chaudhary.

READ MORE: Former PMs Narasimha Rao and Charan Singh, alongside MS Swaminathan, awarded Bharat Ratna

While the MP had previously announced an alliance with the Samajwadi Party (SP), recent reports suggested a potential pivot towards the BJP ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, especially after the BJP’s decision to confer Bharat Ratna upon his late grandfather.

Expressing gratitude towards PM Modi’s government for recognising people outside the mainstream, Chaudhary stated, “What previous administrations failed to accomplish has been realised through PM Modi’s foresight.”

When questioned about the possibility of aligning with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), Chaudhary responded affirmatively, indicating a readiness to collaborate. “Koi kasar rehti hai? Aaj main kis muh se inkaar karoon aapke sawalon ko (Is there any doubt? How can I refuse today?),” he said.

However, the SP swiftly criticised the BJP, accusing it of sabotaging alliances and manipulating political dynamics to its advantage. SP president Akhilesh Yadav condemned the BJP’s tactics, emphasising its knack for dividing and conquering.

If Chaudhary indeed forges ties with the BJP, it would deliver a significant blow to the Opposition’s I.N.D.I.A. alliance, already reeling from setbacks following Nitish Kumar’s departure.

Amid the political manoeuvring, Rajya Sabha chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar intervened, slammed the Congress for its disruption during the session. Dhankhar emphasised the need to respect the legacy of Chaudhary Charan Singh, underscoring his dedication to public service and unwavering commitment to farmers’ welfare.

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