PM Modi calls CM Gehlot a ‘friend’, thanks him for attending Vande Bharat launch event

After Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 12 thanked Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for attending the launch of the Vande Bharat Express between Ajmer and Delhi Cantonment despite going through a “political tussle” in the State Congress, Mr. Gehlot challenged the former’s claim.

After Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 12 thanked Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for attending the launch of the Vande Bharat Express between Ajmer and Delhi Cantonment despite going through a “political tussle” in the State Congress, Mr. Gehlot challenged the former’s claim.

He said it was “unfortunate” that the PM had talked about the decisions taken by earlier Railway Ministers as being influenced by corruption and political considerations.

Mr. Gehlot accused the PM of reducing the importance of railways during his own term by ending the practice of a separate railway budget.

The launch event was organised at the Jaipur Junction railway station. It was attended by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Jaipur MP Ramcharan Bohra among others.

Mr. Modi said his government today was fulfilling demands which were more than 100 years old.

Mr. Modi called Mr. Gehlot a “friend” and thanked him for attending the launch event even when he is going through a “political tussle” in the State.

“I express my special gratitude to Gehlot ji. During these days of political struggle when he is going through several crises, he took out the time for development work and participated in a railway programme. I welcome him,” Mr. Modi said.