New Delhi:
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh today expressed confidence that the BJP would secure a score of 80/80 in Uttar Pradesh, shaking off any concern that low votes could be bad news for his party.
Rajnath Singh, the BJP candidate from Lucknow, also slammed what he called the opposition's 'politics of obfuscation' in an interview with DailyExpertNews during the campaign.
“The popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unparalleled. He has increased India's stature in the world. The country wants him to be the Prime Minister. People trust Modi,” the Defense Minister said.
“The BJP will win all 80 seats in UP,” he added.
On the buzz about Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra both contesting from UP – in Amethi and Raebareli – the BJP veteran commented: “What is the delay then? Everyone can participate. We are ready for battle.”
Mr Singh attributed the low voting percentage to the lack of enthusiasm among opposition voters.
“Some of the low votes are due to the heat. Moreover, everyone knows that the BJP will return with a huge majority and that Modi will be the Prime Minister. So those who vote for the opposition cannot muster any enthusiasm,” said the Mr Singh. rejecting analyzes that linked low turnout in some parts of the country to disillusionment on the ground and anti-incumbency.
Mr Singh lashed out at the Opposition for leveling allegations of targeted investigations, especially the incarceration of leaders like Arvind Kejriwal, in their Lok Sabha campaign.
“If authorities are wrong, everyone has the opportunity to go to court. Why doesn't the court grant them relief? Are courts also under pressure? The opposition must stop spreading lies.”
Rajnath Singh is contesting for a third consecutive term from Lucknow, which will vote in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha polls on May 20.