Panaji, Aug 31 (IANS) The image of a Goa minister next to Lord Ganesh on plastic bags meant for festival goodies and other free stuff has irked the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the state.

"It is insulting to the Hindus," said former state BJP president Rajendra Arlekar Wednesday describing the image of Civil Supplies and Revenue Minister Jose Phillip D'Souza on the plastic bags as both "offensive" and "gimmicky".

Calling it an election gimmick, Arlekar said: "Apart from Ganesh Chaturthi sweets, Jose Phillip is also distributing sugar, oil and other commodities in these bags."

He demanded an apology from the minister who belongs to the Nationalist Congress Party. "He should offer an unconditional apology for this gimmick," Arlekar said.

Jose Phillip was unmoved. "It is festival time," he said. "All of us should make merry. What is the BJP talking about?"

The offending carry bags show Jose Phillip in a dark suit next to a fully bedecked Ganesha. But he said: "It is only a printed image."

Distribution of traditional sweets and other savouries is part of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, which begin Thursday.