Narendra Modi takes a dig at Congress on development of UP

In a sarcastic attack on Congress on the eve of the first phase of Uttar Pradesh polls, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi has sought to know whether Union government could ensure uninterrupted power supply even in the high-profile constituencies of Amethi and Rai Bareilly.

"We provide 24-hour electricity to around 18000 villages throughout the year. Even in the house of Prime Minister there are power cuts. Can they (Centre) provide round-the-clock electricity in Amethi or Rai Bareilly," Modi said in an obvious reference to AICC general secretary Rahul Gandhi and Congress president Sonia Gandhi, who represent the Lok Sabha constituencies respectively.  "Gujarat Chief Minister and the state's development is discussed far-off in Uttar Pradesh polls too," he said.

Taking potshots at Congress, Modi told a public gathering at Bavla town here that paying "obeisance" to the "supreme chair" was an integral part of the culture of Congress.

"In Congress, worshipping the chair assumes supreme importance, while for us (BJP) public interest is the first priority," the chief minister said.

Modi observed a day-long fast under his Sadbhavna Mission.

Accusing Congress of stoking communal fire during its rule in Gujarat, Modi said, "BJP only celebrates festival of development".