It's a matter of great joy and pride: Modi's brother

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s family is proud that he has taken oath, one of his family members said on Monday.

“I am extremely happy that Narendrabhai is becoming India’s PM. It’s a matter of joy and pride for all family members. We could have gone there to attend the swearing-in ceremony. However, we family members didn’t want to divert his attention. Thus, we decided to watch the ceremony on television,” Modi’s younger brother Prahlad Modi, who lives in Ahmedabad, told reporters.

“Another reason we didn’t go, is because we don’t want anyone to raise fingers at Modi claiming that he favoured his family. Thus, none of us went to attend the ceremony,” Prahlad said.

Similarly, Modi’s elder brother Somabhai Modi and his family also stayed back. “We just want to make sure that no trouble should be caused to him due to us (family members). We don’t want to give a chance to anyone to allege that Modi believes in nepotism. Thus, we haven’t gone to Delhi to attend the ceremony,” Somabhai said.

The PM’s mother Hiraba, who lives in Gandhinagar with another one of his younger brothers, Pankaj, also stayed back and witnessed the gala event on television.

Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party workers organised several events across Gujarat to welcome Modi as PM after his swearing-in ceremony. A fireworks display was organised at Naranpura crossroads and Vyas Wadi area, which are both places under the Naranpura assembly seat, held by Modi’ right hand, Amit Shah.

Similarly, the BJP Yuva Morcha also asked his workers to celebrate the day by distributing sweets and organise small rallies across Gujarat.

 Image: Narendra Modi's mom and family members watch as he is sworn-in as the 15th prime minister. Photograph: PTI photo.