My parliamentary party has explained why we took the decision. I am part of the parliamentary party and that says it all. We decided to stay out because a section of the UF raised questions about the political morality of the TMC and its loyalty to the Front.
Don't you think this will weaken the UF and the government?
Why should it weaken either? We are supporting the UF as well as the government. The only difference now is that we are not going to be part of the administration. Our 20 MPs are with the UF.
Will this decision affect your equations with the DMK in Tamil Nadul?
I don't know why you are asking such a question. It's hypothetical and I don't want to comment.
I.K. Gujral has told us that he will convince you to reconsider your decision?
Mr Gujral met me yesterday (April 19) and asked us to reconsider our decision. On Sunday, Chandrababu Naidu came to meet me with the same message. But you must realise that I am heading a democratic party and I can't go against the wishes of my partymen. There is no question of the TMC reconsidering its decision and joining the government.
Will you take part in future meets of the UF steering committee?
There is no need for us to take part in routine meetings. But should a big issue come up, we will participate. Sunday's meeting discussed cabinet formation. Since we aren't joining the government, there was no need for us to take part in it. What was your response to the offer of deputy prime ministership? The question of deputy prime ministership is the most foolish report generated by the media. I am not deputy prime minister material.
