However, Gardiner said that Modi was already the main leader of the opposition in India.
“He (Modi) is already main 'leader of the opposition' and depending on the outcome of next year's (Indian general) elections he could become the prime minister of India," Gardiner said justifying the move.
"At the very least, he will continue to be a dominant influence on India's future direction one way or another. Britain has good relations with India and our trade and education links are strong and growing," he said.
"It is therefore in my view entirely appropriate that British politicians and leaders of the Indian community in the UK should have an interest in what he has to say about the future direction of his country.”
However, the Muslim forum doesn't seem to buy this argument and has pointed out that Modi is "not the leader of the opposition".
According to the forum, Modi is "not as popular as you have been told".
