Sam Pitroda said extending wishes to the Prime Minister was a matter of courtesy and should not be viewed through a political lens.
Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda reiterated that he respects Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as a “fellow Gujarati” and saying their differences are political rather than personal.
In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18, a day after the two exchanged Diwali and Gujarati New Year greetings, Sam Pitroda said extending wishes to the Prime Minister was a matter of courtesy and should not be viewed through a political lens.
“I respect the PM, and that’s why I wished him. He is a fellow Gujarati and this is courtesy,” Sam Pitroda told CNN-News18.
Responding to questions about the possible objections within the Congress over his gesture, Sam Pitroda said it was for the party to decide whether it had a problem with him wishing Modi.
“It’s the Congress problem if they have an issue with me over this,” he said.
‘We Don’t Have To Agree With His Political Views’
Sam Pitroda said that having a personal equation with PM Modi did not mean he agreed with the Prime Minister’s political positions.
“I may have a personal equation, but that does not mean that we have to agree with his political views,” he said. He also pointed out that he had not met PM Modi in 15 years, while stressing the importance of maintaining basic courtesy across political differences.
“I think we need to show this courtesy and work together, as this is what people expect from us. After all, he is the PM of our country,” Sam Pitroda said.
What PM Modi Said To Sam Pitroda
PM Modi extended Diwali and Gujarati New Year greetings to Pitroda on Thursday. The PM posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Happy Diwali and Nutan Varsh Abhinandan to you Sam Bhai and to Anjana Ben. Praying for a joyful and healthy year ahead. Jai Jagannath!”
