Laloo hints at RJD joining new Government at Centre Saturday, May 15 2004 20:35 Hrs (IST)
New Delhi:
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) president Laloo Prasad Yadav today (May 15, 2004) hinted at his party joining the Government under Prime Ministership of Sonia Gandhi, but sidestepped questions on whether he discussed key posts like that of Deputy Prime Minister or Home Minister during his meeting with the Congress president.
"We (Congress-RJD alliance) have fought the elections jointly and shall remain together even in power," he told reporters when asked whether RJD will participate in the new Government.
To a question if posts like that of the Deputy Prime Minister and the Home Minister were discussed during the meeting, Laloo said, "There has been no talk of any ministry. Let Sonia be sworn in first."
Asked whether RJD has handed the letter of support to Sonia, he said the newly elected Lok Sabha members would reach New Delhi by tomorrow and after a meeting of the RJD parliamentary party, it would be done.
Soon after Sonia was elected leader of the Congress parliamentary party, senior party leader Arjun Singh drove to Laloo's residence. The RJD president termed it as a "courtesy call" and exchange of pleasantries.
Responding to questions, Laloo said he had no objection to any party, including Samajwadi Party, joining the next Government at the Centre.