The Rediff Interview/Ajit Jogi

'Corruption charges against Kesri are baseless'

Ajit Jogi's appointment as additional Congress spokesman has generated speculation that senior spokesman V N Gadgil has lost party president Sitaram Kesri's confidence.

Denying the rumours, senior Congress functionaries said Jogi has been brought in to share Gadgil's burden.

The relatively younger Jogi has refused to be drawn into controversies. In this interview with Tara Shankar Sahay, the MP from MP discusses what's up in the Congress party.

Could you elaborate on the running feud between Sitaram Kesri and party vice-president Jitendra Prasada?

There is no running feud between Kesri and Prasada. I think it is the handiwork of the media.

There are no differences between the two...

I am very clear. We are all united. Congressmen may hold different viewpoints, but to label them as ''tiffs'' or ''running feuds'' is the media's privilege.

So there is no power struggle in the Congress. Is that right?

I did not say that. I am merely saying that you journalists should not make a mountain out of a molehill. The Congress is a large party and a democratic organisation where ideas are exchanged and opinions expressed, which need not necessarily be the same.

You belong to Madhya Pradesh which goes to assembly polls next year. What are your party's electoral chances?

I think the Congress will retain power. Our party leaders, including Kesriji and (Madhavrao) Scindiaji have just visited the state to motivate the partymen. They have cautioned partymen against being complacent.

I am not saying that we don't have any problems.

Congress general secretary Tariq Anwar has just told party leaders that performance will be the sole criterion in giving tickets for the MP poll. Would that be the only criterion?

Performance is an important yardstick. You can get further clarifications from Anwar.

How do you react to the corruption charges against Kesri?

Most of the charges are baseless. The authorities concerned, however, are said to be looking into the allegations.

So Kesri's is innocent?

I have already answered your question. Your supplementary in this context is unnecessary.

How do you describe Sharad Pawar?

Pawarji is a senior Congress leader.

Does Kesri also think so?

Of course, he does!