AMN / AHMEDABAD
Campaigning has gained momentum for the first phase of assembly polls in Gujarat. In this phase, 89 constituencies spread over 19 districts of Saurashtra, Kutch and South Gujarat will go to polls on 9th of next month.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today began BJP’s election campaign in the state with a rally in Bhuj.
Addressing a public meeting, Mr Modi said, elections in Gujarat is a battle between BJP’s development and Congress party’s dynasty politics. He said, economic development of Kutch district after the 2001 devastating earthquake is the real picture of the development.
Later addressing a rally in Jasdan constituency of Rajkot district, Prime Minister accused Congress of destabilising the state governments during the rule of previous Chief Ministers belonging to the Patidar community.
He also alleged that Congress prevented Narmada waters from reaching people across the state. He also addressed rallies in Dhari and Kadodara.
A large number of candidates filed nomination papers on the last day for 93 seats of North and Central Gujarat for the second and final phase.
Apart from BJP and Congress, Jan Vikalp Morcho- led by former Chief Minister Shakarsinh Vaghela has also announced the list of 65 candidates for this phase.
Meanwhile, Congress general secretary and party’s Gujarat in-charge Ashok Gehlot has rejected the allegations levelled by Prime Minister on Congress party.
Talking to media, Mr. Gehlot said, people know the programs and policies of Congress party and steps taken by Congress government in the past. Patidar quota leader Hardik Patel also addressed a couple of public meetings at Patdi and Bhayavadar.