MM Joshi downplays Varanasi seat row, says will abide by BJP`s decision

After the reported row over Varanasi seat between Narendra Modi and Murli Manohar Joshi, the latter today relented and said that he would accept the party`s decision in order to not hurt its electoral chances.

Zee Media Bureau/Himanshu Kapoor

New Delhi: After the RSS on Sunday expressed worry over the reported row over Varanasi Lok Sabha seat between BJP`s prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi and senior leader Murli Manohar Joshi, the latter today relented and said that he would accept the party`s decision in order to not hurt its electoral chances in the upcoming General Elections. Rejecting the reports of a row over the Varanasi seat, Joshi told reporters that BJP`s Central Election Committee would take a decision on whom to field from the prestigious UP seat on March 13 in the CEC meet. The decision that will be taken by the party will be by keeping in mind that the PM candidate`s (Modi) image is not dented and BJP`s winning chances are not compromised. There were reports that Joshi was unhappy with reports that Modi might be fielded by the BJP from Varanasi and had sought clarification from the party leadership. Reportedly, he was unwilling to shift from the seat. However, many leaders believe that the Modi factor will help in galvanising the party`s base in crucial region of eastern UP and maximise its winning chances in Uttar Pradesh. The RSS today said that the BJP is experienced enough as seen in the past on various occasions and hoped that the party will solve the current reported row. Though the RSS said that it cannot direct but only give indication to the BJP on whom they should field to contest from a particular seat.