BJP in defensive mode over Modi's criticism ofu00a0Nehru

The Bharatiya Janata Party is a divided house over Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi's critique of Jawharlal Nehru being the icon for Children's Day.

A number of party leaders have described Modi's comment as one creating "unnecessary controversy" over a subject, which was not in the domain of public debate.

"There are a hundred of issues that can be taken up. I do not think there was any need for him to say such a thing," said a senior party leader, wishing anonymity.

Officially, though the party reacted with caution, blaming it over the media. Party spokesperson Prakash Javadekar said, "He (Modi) did not say anything of that sort. He has been quoted out of context."
BJP chief Nitin Gadkari was also seen parrying questions by the media during a news conference on Sunday.

"You should get a printed copy of Narendra Modi's speech. We urge you to report what is actually said. I don't have to give an explanation about what Modi said. We have no objection if you criticise our policies in your editorials but don't confuse news with views," Gadkari said.

The Congress, on the other hand, reacted with indignation over insult to one of its greatest icons. "Nehru was fond of kids and hence he is remembered as 'chacha'. On the contrary, the BJP in general and Modi in particular is known for striking fear in the hearts of people," senior Congress leader Mohan Prakash told MiD DAY.