BJP in a fix as Kolis take on Modi

Earlier, state leaders close to Modi had recommended the party high command to take disciplinary action against Somabhai for violating party rules by speaking to the media. State spokesperson Vijay Rupani said: “We believe in maintaining discipline in the party and we would not like to run the organisation at the cost of discipline. We will initiate stringent actions against those who violate disciplinary norms of the party.”

Purushottam Rupala, state party President, declined to comment on the Gajera episode and said that the party would give its official reaction very soon. Rupani said: “Gajera has made a statement publicly, so it amounts to violating discipline. We will recommend that the Central leadership take action against him.”

But sources said that the party leadership is not in a mood to displease dissidents with Assembly polls just round the corner. Moreover, it is also expected that more dissidents may become vocal as the state gears up for election.

Meanwhile both Gajera and Somabhai have remained defiant. When asked what would be their course of action in case disciplinary actions are initiated, they said: “We are the people’s representatives and so are entitled to raise issues concerning the people.” Gajera has even gone to the extent of saying: “I am not bothered about any action.”