Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the poll-bound state, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Thursday claimed the PMO (Prime Minister's Office) removed his pre-scheduled three-minute address from the event in Sikar.
"So, I will not be able to welcome you through speech. Therefore, I am giving you a hearty welcome through this tweet," Gehlot tweeted.
Replying to Gehlot's tweet, the PMO said the Rajasthan CM was invited as per protocol but the CM's office said he won't be able to join the programme.
"In accordance with protocol, you have been duly invited and your speech was also slotted. But, your office said you will not be able to join. During PM's previous visits as well you have always been invited and you have also graced those programmes with your presence," the PMO said.
"You are most welcome to join today's programme. Your name is very much there on the plaque of the development works as well. Unless you have any physical discomfort owing to your recent injury, your presence will be deeply valued," the PMO further tweeted.
In his tweet, Gehlot said the inauguration and laying of the foundation stone of 12 medical colleges taking place on Thursday was the result of the partnership between the Rajasthan government and the Centre.
"The project cost of these medical colleges is Rs 3,689 crore, of which Rs 2,213 crore is the share of the Centre and Rs 1,476 crore of the state government," Gehlot said.
The Rajasthan CM also took a swipe at PM Modi for visiting the state for the seventh time in six months. Rajasthan goes to polls later this year.
The Rajasthan CM also put forward his demands and hoped that this time these would be completed. The demands included withdrawal of the Agniveer scheme and permanent recruitment in Army, caste census and farm loan waiver. The CM also demanded that the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) be given the status of a project of national importance.
On Thursday, PM Modi is slated to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of various development projects in Rajasthan. The Prime Minister will also dedicate 1.25 lakh PM Kisan Samriddhi Kendras (PMKSK) to the nation and launch the "Urea Gold" scheme.