Considering the chaos that occurred during the 2008 assembly elections, do you think the Congress in the state is better organised now?
Perhaps. The presumption is that it is better organised.
Weren’t you keen to contest the Bangalore South seat?
It is the other way round. I was not keen but there was a lot of pressure from various groups of people. People said they wanted an opportunity to say thank you to me. I thought it would be a good idea to contest, but then....
Most senior state Congress leaders are in the fray this time. How will they fare?
I want the Congress party to reflect the aspirations of the workers. Right now, I’m afraid, I cannot say with a sense of credibility that Congress leaders do represent workers’ aspirations. In a constituency, if the workers’ preference is for a particular candidate, there is no guarantee that the person is going to be anointed the party’s candidate. Between Bangalore and Delhi so many things happen. In Delhi they may think they know all, but I am afraid that is not the case.
The BJP is seeking votes on the performance of the Yediyurappa government. What is your take on the CM?
I cannot understand how any government can claim that in eight months they have brought about magical change. Does Yediyurappa even have a vision for the state?
The BJP has continued to poach people from your party on the eve of elections. What do you feel?
It is reprehensible. I am aghast that seasoned men who have enjoyed offices under the patronage of the Congress today shamelessly go to a party diametrically opposite to their upbringing.
Do you think attacks on Christian prayer halls and women in Mangalore will affect the BJP’s prospects?
That is bound to substantially influence the saner elements amongst the electorate.
