The Surat Crime Branch questioned Nirav Rana, the president of Vishwa Hindu Sewa Samiti, after a controversial SMS reportedly sent from his mobile phone – in relation to the Chief Minister’s health – did the rounds on Friday evening.

Contrary to the outpourings of prayers for Narendra Modi in the wake of his positive swine flu status, the SMS reportedly sent from Rana's mobile wished ill for the chief minister.

The Surat Crime Branch has now begun investigations and has questioned Rana. The police have also sought details from the phone company about its recipients.

Subhash Trived, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Crime Branch, said: “We have questioned him. We have also sought details from the mobile companies. If we find Nirav guilty we will take strict action against him.”