PM forgets allies in anniversary speech

At the function where UPA II presented its report card on Wednesday, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh failed to mention the contribution of the allies during the coalition’s nine-year rule, although he singled out coalition Chairperson and Congress president Sonia Gandhi for praise.

During his lengthy speech at the “UPA bash” held at his residence, the PM placed on record his “deep sense of gratitude to Chairperson, UPA, Smt Sonia Gandhiji, whose inspiring leadership has made these achievements possible”.

On the contrary, Sonia Gandhi in her speech recalled the contribution of the allies.
“The UPA government, our party and our coalition colleagues have all worked closely and united all these years. Together, we have worked hard to pursue our policies and programmes, and provide effective governance.”

Lashing out at the BJP, she remarked, “We are not going to be deterred or distracted by the drummed-up noise being created around us. We have much to be proud of. We  will continue to look ahead with confidence, knowing that the people of our country will recognise the value of what we have accomplished.”