By IANS,
Raipur : Asserting that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is “politically and legally” supporting Varun Gandhi, party president Rajnath Singh said Wednesday that the Congress and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) were “exploiting” the National Security Act (NSA) to harass him.
“What is happening with Varun Gandhi is unfortunate. He is being harassed and the BJP condemns it,” Rajnath Singh said at a rally here.
“The BJP is politically and legally rallying behind Varun Gandhi,” he added.
“His detention under the NSA is shameful. It is the joint act of the Congress and BSP. Where do they want to lead the country?” asked Rajnath Singh.
The Uttar Pradesh government had late Sunday invoked the NSA against Gandhi, the BJP’s Lok Sabha candidate from Pilibhit, for his reported hate speeches and mob violence during his arrest Saturday.
“The Congress and BSP have created an Emergency-like situation by exploiting the NSA. Varun Gandhi has no criminal record,” said the BJP president.
Gandhi was shifted from the prison in Pilibhit to a jail in Uttar Pradesh’s Etah town at around 1.30 a.m. Wednesday for security reasons.
“There is a threat to Varun Gandhi’s life. The centre, Uttar Pradesh government and Election Commission should take note of this and ensure foolproof security for him,” said Rajnath Singh.
“The Congrsss and BSP have crossed all limits to gain political mileage. The BJP will not remain quiet,” he added.