Modi was denied visa by previous government: John Kerry

In perhaps the first explanation of the US denial of visa for Narendra Modi, the Obama Administration on Thursday said the decision was taken by the "previous" government.

"It's a very big deal.  Different government, it's a different government now.  Just like it is here. We will welcome Prime Minister Modi.

"He is going to get a welcome. Of course, he will get a visa. No question whatsoever. And we look forward to a terrific meeting with President Obama in September," Secretary of State John Kerry told NDTV.

He was replying to a question whether the refusal of visa (by the Bush administration) was a mistake as the US government has done a complete turn around now.

Kerry said there was no gain in discussing the past. "We are going forward.  I don't spend my time going backward in politics or who made what decision.  What I try to do is solve current issues and Penny (Commerce Secretary) and I are here not to look backward but to look forward."

Modi was denied US visa after the 2002 post-Godhra riots under the provisions of a US law in connection with the killing of a large number of people under his watch as chief minister.

Replying to questions, Kerry said the US would support India becoming a member of the Nuclear Suppliers Group and also the UN Security Council.