TNI Bureau: Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi proved himself and swept away Congress leading in most of the constituencies of the state. As of 3:00 pm, the BJP won 105 seats leading in 16 seats, while Congress bite the dust winning only 46. Keshubhai Patel, who had formed his own party being separated from BJP, gained only one seat in the polls.
The saffron party was back to power again in Gujarat, but lost to Congress in Himachal Pradesh. The results sparked mixed reaction from BJP’s central leadership.
Despite Congress’ efforts to gain votes by reminding people about Godhra riots, Modi was voted to power finally. Interestingly, the party was leading in most of the Muslim constituencies. Congress finally accepted its defeat. “With all humility we accept the verdict of the people of Gujarat”, said Congress General Secretary BK Hariprasad
Odisha Finance Minister Prasanna Acharya said that Modi has been a very good chief minister and one who has performed as a chief minister, can also perform as a prime minister.
“Definitely it is the mandate given by the people of Gujarat; People have given mandate for the third time for Narendra Modi. India will see Narendra Modi as the next prime minister of India. Already BJP is developing in Karnataka. We have already developed from grassroots level, this victory will boost us,” says Jagadish Shettar, Chief Minister, Karnataka.