Nationalist Congress Party slams spate of controversial remarks by BJP leaders

MUMBAI: The NCP today said that repeated controversial statements from BJP leaders aimed at spreading communal hatred and polarisation, has revealed the "true face" of the saffron party.

Speaking to reporters after inaugurating a photo exhibition here to celebrate the 74th birthday of party chief and former Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, party spokesman Nawab Malik said that eulogising the assassin of Mahatma Gandhi has hurt the sentiments of many Indians and demanded an apology from the party on the issue.

Malik was referring to BJP member Sakshi Maharaj, who termed Nathuram Godse as a patriot.

He also attacked BJP minister Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti's derogatory remarks besides criticising Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik's comments on Ram Mandir saying "those in constitutional posts should refrain from making controversial statements."

Yesterday, Naik at the convocation programme of Awadh University at Faizabad, said that a Ram temple should be built at the site of Babri Masjid as per the "wishes of Indian citizens".

Malik said the NCP has planned various social initiatives for different sections of the society like farmers and youth throughout the year in the state.