Statements on Sushma Swaraj issue a reflection of TMC's internal squabble: BJP

KOLKATA: The BJP today described senior Trinamool Congress leader Sougata Roy's statement and follow-up statement of TMC national spokesperson Derek O'Brien over Sushma Swaraj issue as an internal squabble in the TMC.

"Sougata Roy's statement on Sushma Swaraj issue and counter-statement by the TMC national spokesperson Derek O'Brien is nothing but reflection of the internal squabble within the TMC. It has nothing to do with the Trinamool opposing or extending support to the issue," BJP state President Rahul Sinha told reporters here.

The TMC yesterday distanced itself from party leader Saugata Roy's demand that External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj must own up to having done something "improper" in helping former IPL boss Lalit Modi to procure British travel documents, saying the party does not share his views.

"My colleague Prof Sougata Roy has given a statement on the Sushma Swaraj issue. This may be his personal view, not the view of the party. He is not a spokesperson," TMC national spokesperson Derek O'Brien said.