Tuesday, August 16 2005 12:59 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Ahmedabad: Dissident activity within the Gujarat BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) gained momentum today (Aug 16, 2005) with some of the MLAs from the anti-Narendra Modi camp visiting the house of former Chief Minister Keshubhai Patel, a known Modi-baiter, sources in the rebel camp said in Ahmedabad.

"A few rebel MLAs and some MP's have visited him and a few more are expected to meet Patel, who recently returned from the US with his ailing wife. They would inquire about her health and also appraise him about the recent developments in the party during his absence," the sources said.

Meanwhile, senior VHP (Vishwa Hindu Parishad) leader Praveen Togadia also visited Patel's house early this morning and "inquired" about the health of Patel's wife Leelaben.

However Togadia denied speaking to Patel about the ongoing rebellion within the Gujarat BJP.

"I visited them (Patels) only to inquire about Leelaben's health as I am a well wisher of the family for many years," Togadia told sources in Ahmedabad.

A mandap has been set up at the former Chief Minister's house in Gandhinagar apparently for the MLAs visiting today.

The MLAs meeting Patel assumes significance in the wake of a show cause notice issued to Gordhan Zadafiya, Patel's close aide, two weeks ago for defying the party openly and refusing a cabinet berth when Chief Minister Narendra Modi expanded his ministry, incidentally in the absence of Patel.