Do you want Laloo Yadav to step down?
We are not dissidents. We are loyal party workers who want a change in the state leadership. We are actually trying to save the party.
Does that mean the party is in trouble?
Politically, yes. Our constituents are moving away. Our huge mass base is being whittled away and the fodder scam is largely responsible. One indication of our dwindling base came in the last Lok Sabha elections when the BJP-Samata combine made significant inroads. At the rate we are going, it spells political doom.
Do you think Laloo is involved in the fodder scam?
These are legal issues. The CBI has prepared the case. If the CBI director says he has a case, he must be knowing what he is talking about. But yes, a meeting of the Janata Dal Legislature Party should be called. Let the MLAs decide. We will abide by the party decision.
Are the MLAs with you?
Some 45-odd MLAs have signed the memorandum demanding a change in leadership. There are many who have requested that their names not be made public. Then there are fence-sitters, who are waiting and watching to see how the political drama unfolds.
When will you move into action?
Things will really move once the chargesheets are filed. In addition, a lot depends upon the Centre. If Chandradeo Verma is asked to go, it will open a way for us here. Then everyone will openly demand a change. Personally, I think the UF leadership should seize the initiative and move on its own.
Do you think the UF is capable of that?
Anything can happen once the chargesheet is filed.
