Most BJP MPs skip debate on drought

Rana added that the absent MPs had been asked for an oral explanation only. About the reason for the dismal attendance, he said that each MP had cited a different reason.

Talking about the Sardar Sarovar Project, Rana said only its completion would provide a permanent solution to the water crisis in the State. “However, the Congress-led Madhya Pradesh Government has thrown a spanner in the works. If the Congress governments in neighboring states cooperate, controversies regarding the project can come to an end at the earliest,” Rana said.

Rana opined that Congress president Sonia Gandhi should visit Madhya Pradeshinstead of coming to Gujarat. “If she is really convinced, she should try to convince the government there. Also, the Opposition needs to do drought relief work instead of making exaggerated political statements,” Rana added.

Commenting on allegations of starvation deaths in Sabarkantha, Rana said investigations had proved that the deaths had been caused by food poisoning. However, he said the decision to conduct a probe was up to the State Government’s discretion. “As a party, we will accept whatever the government decides,” Rana said.