The Nationalist Congress Party is struggling to keep its flock together in Maharashtra. In an interview with Sanjay Jog, the state NCP president Jayant Patil explains how party with its allies are prepared to take on BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in Lok Sabha elections.
BJP is rolling out red carpet to your leaders. How do you view this?
People who are leaving NCP and Congress are those who have lost their mass base, confidence and who feel that they cannot survive against BJP. The party has already denied them ticket or neglected as they lack elective merit. The party is aware that those migrating to BJP have no other option as they are also being blackmailed by the BJP. The exodus may hamper poll prospects in some areas. However, in most areas the party has an alternative arrangement.
CM has termed Congress and NCP as corruption management company. Besides, BJP is stepping up attacks against NCP chief Sharad Pawar in particular. What is your take?
BJP is in power since October 2014 in the state but the state government was unable to prove any corruption charges. The party is effectively retaliating charges made by BJP. We are on the offensive but NCP is not getting enough coverage for the same. We are reaching out to the masses and raising the ante against the ruling establishment supported by facts.
Pawar is targeted as he is one leader garnering support from all sections of the society. He can turn around the political situation in the state.
BJP has ridiculed alliance of 56 parties comprising Congress and NCP. The Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi leader Prakash Ambedkar declined to join the Mahagatbandhan. Don't you think the division in votes will impact your winning prospects?
All parties in Mahagatbandhan are working together with a sole objective to defeat communal BJP in the state. There is a proper understanding among all partners.
Prakash Ambedkar is BJP's agent and is a B team of the saffron alliance. The Muslims and Dalits have realized this role of his. Barring one or two constituencies he will not make a big impact.
BJP and Shiv Sena have formed alliance and their leaders say they will win 45 of 48 seats in the state. What is your response?
Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray had termed BJP chief Amit Shah Afzalkhan. This hasn't convinced Shivsainiks on the ground. At the grassroots, Shiv Sainiks are opposing BJP candidates.
BJP, in particular, is resorting to any move to come back to power. The opposition cannot match BJP's money power. However, at the ground, there is a subtle wave growing against BJP and PM Modi as people are questioning the government's failure to deliver on poll promises. BJP's event management tactics will not bring them votes. BJP's today's position is similar to the erstwhile 'India Shining' days.
Will BJP's attempt to seek votes on nationalism and patriotism succeed?
The Mahagathbandhan is approaching voters raking up core issue such as unemployment, farmer distress, inflation, poor law and order situation, weakening of democratic institutions and division of society on communal lines.
