NEW DELHI, Aug 23 (TNN : Social media was abuzz with Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's image while he was inspecting a flood-hit region in the state. The picture went viral as the minister was seen inspecting the area in a rather unorthodox way. Two policemen carried Chouhan as they waded across slightly higher than ankle-deep water, surrounded by more policemen and officials. With his arms wrapped over their shoulders for support, the CM managed to stay dry in his make-shift seat as he was taken to his destination.

On Tuesday evening, Chouhan tried to come clean and offered explanation for the picture which has drawn flak from all corners. "Had to cross a bridge to meet few flood-victims standing at the other end. Before I could understand, two policemen lifted me and crossed the bridge," Chouhan told news agency ANI.

The picture that sparked anger, memes and jokes on Twitter was taken when Chouhan was visiting the flood victims in flood ravaged Panna district of Madhya Pradesh.

Criticising the media reportage of the incident, Chouhan expressed his disappointment by saying, "I visited many villages to meet flood victims. However, only that photo was reported heavily".

Earlier, the opposition Congress ridiculed the minister and said that his picture reflected his "feudal mindset".

At least fifteen people have died since Friday across Madhya Pradesh due to floods and building collapses caused by rain.