Development major poll issue, but not charity: Gujarat CM

Ahmedabad, Sep 2: Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani today said development will be the chief election issue in the state but asserted 'mere charity' is no panacea for people. 'Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that development should be linked to creating opportunities for the people,' Mr Rupani told a group of visiting journalists from Delhi. In this context, he mentioned about labour welfare schemes and tribal welfare schemes and said, 'We are creating ground where farmer income can be increased, we are helping set up medical colleges in all districts.' Answering questions, the Chief Minister said BJP's electoral strategy for Gujarat is well-focussed and the campaign will be done in the line of UP model wherein Prime Minister Modi and party chief Amit Shah will be the principal faces. He dismissed playing a 'rubberstamp' role to Prime Minister and Mr Shah and said, 'I will continue to consult these two leaders because they are experienced.' 'Jo bolna hai log bolen (whatever people have to say, let them say) but i will be consulting these two leaders,' Mr Rupani said. He said Muslims are also important section of people in the state but BJP doesn't believe in policy of appeasement. He said triple talaq development will also help BJP to win support of Muslim women. UNI