Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot couldn't attend the foundation laying programme of 12 medical colleges as he was injured. PM Modi also wished CM Gehlot a quick recovery. "CM Ashok Gehlot has been ill for some time now & has injured his leg. He was supposed to attend the program today, but could not due to his health conditions. I pray for his good health," PM Modi said.
This came after CM Gehlot claimed that the PMO (Prime Minister's Office) had removed his scheduled three-minute address from the event in Sikar. However, the PMO said the Rajasthan CM was invited as per protocol, but his 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.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a Rajasthan tour. On Thursday, has released Kisan Samman Nidhi benefits worth Rs 17,000 crore to the accounts of 9 crore farmers in Sikar. He also launched PM Pranam Yojana and Kisan Samridhi Kendras in poll-bound Rajasthan. He also inaugurated five medical colleges in the state and laid the foundation of seven others. 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, CM Gehlot said earlier in the day.