Gorakhpur, 24 February. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Uttar Pradesh unit president Pankaj Choudhary launched a scathing attack on Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav’s “100 MLA” comment, saying such a statement clearly shows that the SP is not in a position to form the government on its own. Speaking to reporters at his residence in Gorakhpur on Monday evening, Chaudhary said, “Such comments reflect their (SP’s) desperation. If they were confident of their support, they would have talked about forming the government themselves.”

At a press conference in Lucknow on Sunday, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav had said, “Bring 100 MLAs with you and become the Chief Minister.” He had also said, “Both (deputy chief ministers) want to become chief ministers. Whoever brings 100 MLAs will get a chance. There will be no better opportunity than this.” Rejecting speculations of any tussle within the BJP, Chaudhary said the government and the party organization are working in full coordination.

The BJP state president said, “There are no differences between the government and the organization. If any issue arises, it is resolved internally.” Chaudhary claimed that the BJP government has worked extensively for the welfare of the poor, farmers and women and has strengthened law and order, infrastructure and investment in the state. He alleged that the opposition has run out of issues of public interest and is making “immature political rhetoric” to grab headlines. He said that BJP workers remain active throughout the year and the party will soon present its strategy for the upcoming elections before everyone.