Modi in Himachal: Congress is a laughing club, losing everywhere
Himachal Pradesh, which goes to polls on November 9, will see a PM Narendra Modi blitzkrieg as he addresses rallies in different constituencies. While addressing public meetings in Himachal's Kangra and Dhaula Kuan, Modi said "Wherever people have a chance, they have voted for change. They (Congress) have become a laughing club." He further said Congress is losing its hold throughout the country.
Attacking CM Virbhadra Singh, who is embroiled in a disproportionate assets case, Modi said, "CM Singh is embroiled in corruption yet the Congress in manifesto says there will be zero tolerance of corruption. Even a child won't believe it." This comment was greeted with laughter and applause. He also said "For Congress, Swacchta Abhiyan is cleaning up the state's coffers."
Attacking naysayers, Modi said he is "criticized by those who benefited from black money economy." Exalting his role in weaning out corruption, Modi said "receipts for government schemes were issued for 10,000 people but actual beneficiaries were 5,000-6,000; thus, money was released on fake receipts." After schemes were linked with Aadhaar and direct transfer of money established, Rs. 57,000cr has been saved.
Modi said Himachal's "dev bhoomi" is affected by problems akin to five demons of 'mining mafia, forest mafia, drug mafia, tender mafia and transfer mafia', which can be eradicated by booting Congress. He urged mothers to vote for BJP, promising to eliminate the drug mafia.
Referring to Congress VP Rahul Gandhi's meeting with the Chinese ambassador during the Doklam stand-off, he said "Instead of asking Indian diplomats & foreign ministry," Rahul approached the Chinese envoy. "This shows lack of primary understanding. How can India trust such leaders?" He said Congress is no longer Mahatma Gandhi's institution that "fought for freedom." It is now "mired in dynasty, corruption."
As Himachal registers a high rate of enlistment in armed forces, Modi referred to Chidambaram's endorsement for J&K's greater autonomy and said "India is fighting Pakistan's proxy war in Kashmir; Congress has no right to insult our martyrs." Praising his government's efforts in addressing problems plaguing armed forces, Modi said "Retired army officers met me and said that you have made our lives special."
With polls coming up, BJP's star campaigner Modi will address rallies on November 4-5 in Mandi, Kangra, Kullu and Una. BJP has also announced Prem Kumar Dhumal as its CM candidate. Modi claims Dhumal had "enhanced education and tourism" during his Chief-ministership stint. As Himachal has alternatively voted BJP and Congress to power since 1980, it wouldn't be surprising if BJP wins this time.
