Decision on Delhi CM candidate prerogative of Parliamentary Board: BJP

NEW DELHI: In a clear message to its Delhi leaders, many of whom are reportedly unhappy with sudden entry of Kiran Bedi and her projection as possible chief ministerial candidate, BJP today said such a decision was the prerogative of its Parliamentary Board.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar also blamed Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP for fueling such "rumours" and claimed "afwah and atkal party (rumour and speculation party)" will cease to get media space after February 7, when elections will be held, and BJP will storm to power with two-thirds majority.

Javadekar's message to the party leaders came in the backdrop of its North East Delhi MP Manoj Tiwari raising issues over possible projection of Bedi as its chief ministerial pick.

Tiwari had said Bedi was like a party worker and should be treated that way. He had also said a "thanedaar" or police official was not welcome but later clarified that the remarks were not aimed at Bedi.

Talking to media at the party office, Javadekar said, "Some news channels have reported about differences in BJP (over Bedi). The reality is completely opposite. Leaders from AAP and Congress are joining us...AAP runs on the basis of rumours and speculation.

"The right to announce the decision on chief ministerial candidate is with Parliamentary Board," he said when asked about comments of its local leaders on the issue.

Senior party leader Jagdish Mukhi had said a campaign built around Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be the party's best bet as it had paid dividend in state Assembly elections held so far.

Tiwari had given clarification about his comments, Javadekar said, adding that it was not proper to spread "misconception" based on one comment.

"All MPs and MLAs are working with the sole aim to bring BJP to power...People were in a dilemma last time and delivered a fractured verdict. Now they are happy with the performance of the Modi government and will give BJP two-thirds majority," he said.