Sunday, August 21 2005 11:04 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Ahmedabad: In a blow to dissidents in Gujarat, who have been clamouring for a change of guard in the state, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President L K Advani yesterday (August 20, 2005) praised the functioning of the Narendra Modi Government and applauded its honesty and effectiveness.

"As per my knowledge, the Modi Government is functioning very well and it is a good example of sound governance and honesty," Advani told reporters here.

"I have been hearing only good news about the state and the present Government is a good example of sound governance that works for the people with honesty and is effective," he said at a public function later in the city.

Though Advani did not say a word about the dissident activity and the campaign to oust Modi, his praise for the Chief Minister is seen as a snub to their activities.

The dissidents, who had avoided meeting him at Delhi three days ago, greeted him at the airport and some of them were present at the public function where Advani dedicated a park-cum-lake to people.

Speculation is rife that Advani might visit the house of former Chief Minister and the most vocal Modi critic Keshubhai Patel to inquire about the condition of his ailing wife Leelaben.

There is also an air of uncertainty if Advani would meet other rebel leaders as they had not met him during their Delhi trip.