New Delhi:
At a marathon brainstorming session of the BJP on Sunday, the party's Bihar unit was reprimanded by Rajnath Singh for jumping the gun on Narendra Modi.
The BJP president frowned upon the Bihar unit's resolution on Saturday requesting that Narendra Modi be declared the party's prime ministerial candidate immediately, and specifically ordered all other state units to desist from making such demands.
A stern Mr Singh reportedly said that he was aware of his responsibilities and knew what decisions he needed to take and when. A decision on who would be the face of the party would be taken after consulting all top leaders, he added.
Sources have indicated that a Modi announcement could be made soon as the party preps for Assembly elections due at the end of the year and for general elections 2014. With several top party leaders said to be against fielding the Gujarat Chief Minister, accused by many of being a divisive leader, Rajnath Singh is reportedly making all efforts to build a consensus on his candidacy.
Mr Modi is the BJP's election campaign committee chief and was present when the Bihar unit was scolded. He, in fact, headed yesterday's meeting, called to finalise elements of the party's campaign, along with Rajnath Singh.
It was described as a mini-national executive, with top leaders, heads of state units and others present.
Mr Modi urged the BJP to reach out to all groups across the country, including Muslims.
He also underscored the need to tap young, first-time voters who, he said, are restless for a change.