BJP govt will collapse under its own weight, says Scindia

SURAT, March 24: AICC General Secretary and in-charge Gujarat affairs Madhavrao Scindia reiterated that the Congress had no intention of ...

SURAT, March 24: AICC General Secretary and in-charge Gujarat affairs Madhavrao Scindia reiterated that the Congress had no intention of toppling the BJP-led government. But if it failed, the Congress will form the government and Sonia Gandhi will become the prime minister.

“Though the Congress is averse to forming a coalition government, if circumstances compel us to lead a coalition government, such a government will be headed by Sonia Gandhi. There is no debate about it”, Scindia told a press conference.

Prime minister Atal Behari Vajpayee has been saying that the Congress is going to topple his government, which is a reflection of insecurity, he said, adding that the party which has problem with its allies and its own associate organisations cannot last long.

Story continues below this ad

The BJP is not only facing problems from its allies but there are divisions inside as well. And that the party is divided into two camps, can be clearly reflected in the vigorous attack launched by Mohan Guruswamy, former economic advisor to finance minister. While Guruswamy has praised the home minister, he has levelled serious charges against the PM, which need to be probed.

A government with so many contradictions has no time to look after national interests. “If the government fails, the Congress Working Committee will take a decision in national interest,” he added.

Attacking the Keshubhai Patel government for failing to fulfill its constitutional duty, the Congress leader said, “It is a matter of concern that Christian institutions were attacked in Gujarat and the government encouraged elements who had attacked minorities. It is unfortunate that the PM has given a clean chit to Patel government.”

Admitting that it was a mistake on part of the Congress to support Shankersinh Vaghela government, he said, “We will never ever become minority partner in any government. It has cost us dearly.”

Story continues below this ad

Describing Sunder Singh Bhandari’s transfer to Gujarat as unfortunate, he said the BJP was a “politicising institution” which does not augur well for the country. “Bhandari takes pride in saying that he is an RSS man first and governor second. That is why we are worried,” he added.

This is one reason why the AICC opposed imposition of President’s rule in Bihar. “If the RJD government is to be sacked for law and order problem, the government of Gujarat, Hariyana, should also be sacked as over all crime rate, according to the home minister, is higher in these states.”

Scindia called upon political parties to raise above party politics to prevent such killings.