BJP rally: Advani, Modi show unity as election stage is set

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) patriarch LK Advani and Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday showed unity by sharing stage at a mega rally in Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal city on Wednesday.

Advani and Modi shared the dais for the first time after the latter was named the BJP's prime ministerial candidate amid opposition by the party patriarch.

In a show of unity, at the rally, Advani presented Modi a bouquet while the latter touched his feet.

Addressing the rally, Modi said: "It is because of Shivraj Chouhan that Madhya Pradesh is making progress in all directions."

"Nobody has been able to achieve what BJP has achieved here," he said.

"It is all because of the hardwork of the CM, his entire team and the grass roots workers of the BJP," said Modi.

"I don't have the slightest doubt that the BJP will win in Madhya Pradesh," he said.

Addressing the rally, Advani said: "We have worked well in the Opposition. We formed a governemnt in a few states ... even in Madhya Pradesh."

"We formed a government in the centre and the NDA also formed governments in many states. Based on our track record, we seek a mandate from the people," he said.

BJP president Rajnath Singh said: "The BJP's success in the elections depends on the hardwork of its workers."

"From Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Singh Chouhanji can again become the Chief Minister and Narendra Modi can become the Prime Minister of India. I salute the resolve of all the BJP workers," he said.

Slamming the Congress, Singh said: "In Madhya Pradesh, you have seen many Congress governments. But you know who can provide able administration."

"Since the time UPA has been in power at the centre, we have seen the leadership they have provided. Inflation and corruption are on the rise - they have set new records," he said.

"BJP is the only party that can give India a good governance. When NDA was in power, no ministers were corrupt. But under Congress, corruption is rampant," he said.