NDA divided over Varun issue, BJP stands by him

The NDA was divided over the Varun Gandhi issue with a key ally and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar favouring legal action against the BJP member for the hate speeches while another partner Shiv Sena found "nothing wrong" and rallied around him.

Confronted with the controversy, the BJP stood by Gandhi and brooked no interference on how the party handles the matter and said it was finally its decision whether or not to field him for the Lok Sabha elections. Gandhi is BJP's nominee for Pilibhit in Uttar Pradesh.

"As a political worker and a resident, this is my clear opinion that legal action should be taken against him (Gandhi). I feel he cannot escape the legal action in fact," Kumar, chief minister of Bihar, told reporters in New Delhi when asked to comment on the the Allahabad High Court order dismissing Gandhi's petition seeking quashing of an FIR filed against him in connection with the controversial speeches made in Pilibhit earlier this month.

"If anybody who is in politics and in public life... makes such statements, there is a law and action should be taken according to it. Action as per law should take place on such people," Kumar said.

Shiv Sena's view was outlined by its supremo Bal Thackaray who said in party mouthpiece 'Saamana', "There is nothing wrong in what he has said. He is one Gandhi we like."Gandhi also reportedly thanked Thackeray for his support.

"I am overwhelmed by his support. I am grateful to him and thank him," Saamana quoted Varun as saying.