We believe in secular India: AICC national convenor Priyanka Chaturvedi

Bengaluru: AICC Media Convener Priyanka Chaturvedi said the Congress envisions an inclusive, secular and free India and what better place to start that movement than in Karnataka, where development has been par excellence. She said the party would continue pursuing this goal if it returns to power in the state.

Addressing reporters here on Thursday, she said she had held consultation with office-bearers of NSUI, the media cell and other cells for the last three days.

Interviews had been held to finalize panelists who participate in discussions on television. Those who were capable of defending the party would be appointed spokespersons.

Replying to a question, she said people had already said 'No' to BJP National President Amit Shah's question on whether they wanted State BJP President B.S. Yeddyurappa as the next CM and whether they wished the saffron party to come to power. This shows people were happy with the Congress.

Commenting on BJP rule in Uttar Pradesh under Yogi Adityanath, Ms Chaturvedi said people knew Yogi's hidden agenda and would give him a befitting reply.