While Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan is leading the election campaign in the state as its poster boy, the rein of the State BJP is in the hands of a relatively low-key Shri Narendra Singh Tomar. A Member of Parliament from Morena in the 15th Lok Sabha, and state president for the second term, Shri Tomar speaks to Debobrat Ghose on BJP’s plans, prospects, its winning factors and his leadership strategy to keep the party cohesive ahead of the polls on November 25.
What are the core issues which are likely to power BJP’s third successive victory?
Basically, the MP BJP would broadly focus on three major areas and communicate it with its voters. First, the pathetic condition of MP during Congress regime till 2003 vis-à-vis our achievements. Second, a balanced and comprehensive approach adopted by addressing the problems and issues of the neglected and economically-weaker section of the society through our welfare schemes. And, third on our achievements in infrastructure, power, investment, employment generation and agriculture.
What are the weaknesses of Congress that would act in favour of the BJP?
Congress has no connection and work at ground-level, but it wants to be in the news by levelling false allegations against the BJP. Its dismal performance and increasing corruption in the form of big scams at the Centre are known to all. The party itself is in a disintegrated and indisciplined state in MP.
Immediately after announcement of tickets, resentment among party leaders and workers surfaced, which turned into protest demonstrations. What is your strategy to deal with it as the party president?
BJP is a mass-based party having members from different backgrounds and sections. In many cases, there is more than one capable candidate for a single seat with ambitions. All members have the right to express their views and we’re giving a patient hearing to them through long sessions. I consider myself a party worker, and communicate with them on equal terms in resolving issues.
How is Shri Narendra Modi’s visit going to benefit the state BJP?
Shri Modi is our national leader and his presence will definitely help in mobilising non-committal votes in BJP’s favour.
In case BJP comes to power for the third time in MP, what would be its ramification on the 2014 general elections?
It’ll provide a positive support and help us in gaining more Lok Sabha seats, may be up to 25 against the present 16 out of 40 from the state.
Lastly, Muslims comprise 7% of the population. How much do you expect from this segment in the form of ballot?
We don’t discriminate between a majority and minority. There has been an increase in trust amongst minorities for the BJP. A large number in this segment is economically weaker and they have benefitted from our welfare schemes and good governance. This will help us in gaining more votes from minorities.
