In a setback to dissidents in Gujarat, Bharatiya Janata Party president Lal Kishenchand Advani virtually backed Chief Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, praising the functioning of his government.
"As per my knowledge, Modi government is functioning very well and it is a good example of sound governance," Advani told reporters immediately after his much-hyped arrival in the city.
"I have been hearing only good news about the state and the government is a good example of sound administration that works for the people", Advani said.
Advani did not utter a word about the dissident activity in Gujarat and the campaign to oust Modi. Earlier, Modi and a handful of MLAs of the rebel camp including Gordhan Zadafiya greeted Advani at the airport.
Speculation is rife that Advani would visit the house of former chief minsiter and most vocal Modi critic Keshubhai Patel to 'inquire' about his ailing wife Leelaben. Advani is on a two-day visit to the state.
