The former UP CM on the prospects of his returning to the BJP
Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Kalyan Singh has reached outfor the BJP, and if the events carry on in the same manner his return home isalmost certain. The satisfaction and joy of homecoming can be read on his face.Kalyan's discontent with the BJP has now been replaced by sympathy. Talking toOutlook Saptahik, Kalyan reiterated that he didn't leavethe BJP, the party expelled him. Excerpts from the interview:
Are discussions on for your return home?
I won't deny that the political process has begun. It is an extensivepolitical process. Some old friends from the BJP approached me. We have had along discussion. Fresh political equations, experiments and coalitions will soonbe formed. If the BJP is thinking about Kalyan Singh today, it can be called apositive development.
What are the obstacles to returning to the BJP?
These are internal matters. Nothing can be said until the results are seen.But, this is for sure that there are certain 'elements' in the BJP who want thecurrent situation to become worse. That is why they have leaked the news. Rightnow 'primary talks' are on. Such leaks do create obstacles in the way forward.
Who are these people?
Everyone knows them. They are leaders from Uttar Pradesh who stay in Delhi.The people who came for the talks also know them.
You made some personal comments on Prime Minister Vajpayee and Lal KrishnaAdvani. Would that be a deterrent to your homecoming?
I have never personally attacked anyone. I have criticized the policies ofthe NDA government. As both these leaders are involved in policy formation, andare the chief architects of major policies, their names may have cropped up .
You have said that the BJP's structure needs to be brought down. How comethis change in opinion?
At times political equations are so formed that they require various earlierdecisions to be turned around.
What will be the possible effects?
This will be known only after the results of the new political equation comeout.
What will be the future of the coalition government after your return?
This is a hypothetical question, but this is for sure that the arrangementBJP has with Mayawati is suicidal. The coalition government is only adding toMayawati and Mulayam Singh's votes.
The news of your return to the BJP would have added to Mulayam Singh'swoes?
I can't comment on this matter. I had a talk with him today. We talk almosteveryday. But, this has never come up.
Wouldn't you end up riding two boats at the same time?
I do not ride two boats. I know that anyone who does that ends up losing.
Is there a possibility of political temperatures rising in the May heat?
Without waiting for anyone's signal, we will carry on our campaign and dowhatever is needed to carry the party forward. We have a party meeting in May.
What are your views about Vajpayee and Lal Krishna Advani now?
(Cautiously) They are big leaders. They are architects of the nation'spolicies today.
What are your views about the temple construction?
Ram Temple is a national, not political, issue.
What is the difference between the earlier and today's BJP?
Earlier, the BJP was 'the party with a difference'. Today it is 'the partywith no difference.'
Your views on Mayawati?
Same as before.