New Delhi: In a surprising statement, Indian Overseas Congress Chairman Sam Pitroda has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as his “Gujarati friend” and saying that he has no personal differences with the Prime Minister.

Pitroda said he respects PM Modi as a person and highlighted the warmth, kindness and affection he has experienced during their interactions. He also revealed that he and his wife have met the Prime Minister and that he has visited Modi’s residence in Gujarat several times.

Speaking about his personal relationship with PM Modi, Pitroda said, “He is my Gujarati friend. I have no personal differences with him. As a person, I respect him.”

He further described the Prime Minister as a good speaker and a hardworking individual, adding that Modi has always treated him with warmth, love and affection.

“I have no complaints against Mr Modi as a Gujarati leader, friend or well-wisher. He has always been very affectionate towards me, and I appreciate that,” Pitroda said.

PM Modi Responds, Extends New Year Wishes

Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to Pitroda’s remarks by reposting the Congress leader’s video on his official X account.

In his message, PM Modi extended Diwali and Gujarati New Year wishes to Sam Pitroda and his wife, Anjana Ben.

“Warm wishes to you and Anjana Ben on Diwali and the New Year, Sam Bhai. May the coming year bring happiness, good health and prosperity into your lives. Jai Jagannath!” PM Modi wrote.

Sam Pitroda on 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots

When asked whether he held the Gandhi family responsible for the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, Pitroda questioned the relevance of repeatedly discussing an incident that took place four decades ago.

He said the matter had been discussed extensively and suggested that courts and other authorities should decide the issue.

“Why do we keep digging up old issues and throwing mud? I do not understand this attitude. What does it have to do with today's circumstances? How long will we continue talking about the same issue? We should look towards the future,” Pitroda said.

Pitroda Questions Trust in India's Electoral Process

Earlier, Pitroda had expressed serious concerns over public confidence in India's electoral process during a media interaction in Chicago on Wednesday.

His remarks came amid a strong protest by opposition INDIA bloc leaders against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the Election Commission.

Pitroda said public trust in the electoral process had weakened and stressed that every citizen should have the right to vote in a democracy.

“When you lose trust, the foundation of democracy begins to shake. We have lost that trust. Can you restore that trust?” he said.

He also argued that alleged manipulation of elections could undermine the legitimacy of electoral outcomes.

Pitroda additionally shared his views on Rahul Gandhi's upcoming US visit and the NEET-UG examination paper leak controversy, expressing candid opinions on several issues concerning Indian politics and governance.

The remarks have drawn attention because of Pitroda's praise for PM Modi despite the sharp political differences between the Congress and the BJP.