New Delhi: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit (his seventh) to poll-bound Rajasthan, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot triggered a controversy by saying that his speech had been removed from the programme. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) refuted Gehlot’s claims, saying the chief minister’s office had indicated that he would not be able to attend the event.
Gehlot tweeted that his three-minute speech was removed from the programme that would be attended by PM Modi in Rajasthan. He said he would be able to welcome him to the state through a tweet.
“Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi, today you are visiting Rajasthan. Your office, PMO, has removed my pre-scheduled three-minute address from the programme. So, I will not be able to welcome you through the speech. I heartily welcome you to Rajasthan through this tweet,” Gehlot tweeted in Hindi.
Hours later, the PMO refuted Gehlot’s allegations and said he was invited to the event and his speech was slotted as per protocol. It clarified that it was the Rajasthan Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) that stated that Gehlot would not be able to join the programme.
The PMO said that Gehlot had been invited and present at the events during PM Modi’s previous visits to the state. It clarified that Gehlot was welcome to attend today’s programme only if he had any “physical discomfort” owing to his recent injury to his toes.
Shri @ashokgehlot51 Ji,
In accordance with protocol, you have been duly invited and your speech was also slotted. But, your office said you will not be able to join.
During PM @narendramodi’s previous visits as well you have always been invited and you have also graced those… https://t.co/BHQkHCHJzQ
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) July 27, 2023
Addressing a rally in Sikar, PM Modi said Gehlot was supposed to attend the programme today but could not do so due to his current health conditions. He prayed for his good health, India Today reported.
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