New Delhi, April 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday advised BJP leaders not to give "masala" to the media by getting into every issue as soon as they saw camerapersons, saying such "mistakes" affect the country, party and the individual's image.

"Often, our workers say that the media is doing this, the media is doing that. Sometimes, they also claim that certain news is given more air time. But have we ever thought that it is our mistakes that sometimes provide them 'masala' (fodder)," the Prime Minister said during an interaction with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MPs and MLAs through the Narendra Modi mobile app.

He also suggested to the party leaders not to blame the media for reporting their statements as due to their own mistakes the real issue gets diverted.

"We rush to do an analysis of any big topic as soon as we see the cameras. It is not the media's fault -- we have to control ourselves. Only those who have a responsibility to speak should speak to the media. If everyone starts speaking, then the issue gets diverted and it affects the country, the party and our individual image," said Modi.

The Prime Minister said that the ruling party leaders should only speak about the issues they are expected to and they should not get into every issue.

Recalling some controversial statements made by some party MPs during the early years of his government, he said: "Initially, when we formed the government, there were a few MPs -- around 8-10 -- they would speak a lot. I spoke to them and I have seen in the last three years, they have stopped giving statements."

He said that only those given the responsibility should talk and issue/give statements but "we should not get into all things. We should not stand in front of the camera to guide the country". 

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Bhatkal: The management and students of New Shams School gathered during their morning assembly on Saturday to mourn the demise of SM Syed Khalil, a prominent NRI businessman and a guiding force for the school.

Addressing the assembly, Education Board member Moulana Ziya Ruknuddin reflected on Syed Khalil’s remarkable life journey. He highlighted how Khalil, born under challenging circumstances following his father’s death before his birth, overcame significant obstacles to achieve great success.

“Khalil’s life is an inspiration for all of us,” Maulana Ruknuddin said, urging students to draw lessons from his resilience, dedication, and humility. He also emphasized Khalil’s commitment to supporting education and his role in uplifting the people of Bhatkal.

Moulana Ziya further acknowledged Khalil’s contributions to the school, noting his instrumental role in constructing the new campus of New Shams School. He described Khalil as a mentor and guide who was always available to offer his support and vision for the betterment of the institution.

Principal Liyaquat Ali and Board Secretary Syed Qutub Barmawar also attended the ceremony, along with teachers and other staff members, as they joined the students in paying tribute to the beloved community leader.