Congress downplays Kohli's entry into BJP

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday said he was sad over his half-brother Daljeet Singh Kohli joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

He, however, maintained he had no control over his siblings' decisions, saying “they are all adults”. "I feel very sad. I have no control. They are all adults," he told reporters on the sidelines of the Padma awards function here when his reaction was sought on his half-brother joining the BJP. The Congress, however, downplayed Kohli’s entry into the main Opposition, describing it a “non-event”.

"As far as I know he is a non-political person. He never made a political statement in his life. His joining a party is a non-event," Finance Minister P Chidambaram told reporters at a press conference, replying to questions on the issue.

He used the opportunity to attack BJP, when his reaction was sought on the reports about a nephew of Singh claiming there was a “deal” behind Kohli joining the BJP. "It is quite possible. Why should I disbelief that.” he charged.