Ballia (Uttar Pradesh) [India], June 9 (ANI): Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat on Thursday said that though he does not agree with the killing of Mahatma Gandhi, as per his reading of Nathuram Godse, he was also a patriot.

"Godse killed Gandhiji, that is a different topic. But as much as I have known Godse, as much as I have read, he was also a patriot, but we do not agree with the murder of Gandhiji," he clarified.

Also Read | Europe Joins Fight Against Canada Wildfire Smoke.

On Rahul Gandhi, Rawat said that Rahul cannot be the upholder of Gandhian principles just by sharing his name. Moreover, he added that Rahul's identity cannot change by wearing the sacred thread. "They are selling the name of Gandhiji," Rawat alleged.

Speaking on the disturbance at Kolhapur, Rawar said that there are some forces in the country that try to flare up communal issues. The country and people need to remain united, irrespective of their religion and faith, he stressed.

Also Read | EU Countries Agree Stricter Reforms on Asylum and Migration.

On the wrestler's protest, the former Uttarakhand Chief Minister said that the protest shows the courage of Indian sports. The BJP should stand in support of the wrestlers, he said. (ANI)

(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)