Cabinet minister Satpal Maharaj rejected speculation about him joining the Congress party. Addressing the media in the national Capital on Wednesday, the Uttarakhand Tourism and Culture minister rejected the statement reportedly made by leader of opposition and Haldwani MLA Indira Hridayesh about a senior BJP leader set to join the Congress during its national president Rahul Gandhi’s rally in Dehradun on March 16.
Maharaj said that the Congress was floating such a rumour as part of its conspiracy to attract crowds since its rallies were being attended by sparse gatherings. This rumour is part of the Congress’ attempt to gather crowds at Rahul Gandhi’s Dehradun rally.
He said, “The Congress will not succeed in its conspiracy. I will tour across the country and State to strengthen the BJP and ensure that it forms government at the centre under Narendra Modi as the prime minister.Under Modi’s leadership, the nation has progressed on the developmental path and has also gained more respect in the international fraternity.” Stressing that he will remain in the BJP, Maharaj said that he was not seeking a ticket for the Lok Sabha election for himself or anyone in his family.
It will be recalled here that there was speculation about Maharaj joining the Congress and contesting the Lok Sabha election from the Garhwal constituency.
