Addressing a BJP event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recounted how reporters informed him of his elevation to Chief Minister.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday recalled how a group of journalists informed him in 2001 that he was to become the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Speaking at a BJP Diwali Milan event for journalists at the party headquarters in New Delhi, Modi said only two to four senior party leaders were aware of the decision at the time.
According to reports from The Times of India, Business Today and Times Now, Modi said the journalists walked into his room at 11 Ashoka Road and demanded he distribute sweets. He noted that while he initially denied knowing about the development, the reporters insisted they knew the truth.
The Prime Minister remarked that many journalists attended his swearing-in ceremony in 2001 at their own expense and made their own arrangements. He said they attended out of affection, friendship and a personal connection rather than in a professional capacity.
Modi reflected on the evolution of media from the era of press releases to Instagram reels. He praised the dedication of field reporters, noting they head towards disaster sites such as accidents, earthquakes or floods while others might flee.
The Prime Minister urged media organisations to highlight India's success stories and spread awareness regarding the fight against drug abuse. He also stated that 50 crore people have been elevated from below the poverty line in the last 12 years, according to the World Bank.
The event was hosted by BJP president Nitin Nabin and attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Health Minister JP Nadda.
