Monday, February 28 2005 20:53 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Patna: Claiming that Bihar Congressmen were against supporting the RJD (Rashtriya Janata Dal) in Government-formation, State Congress president Ramjatan Sinha today (Feb 28, 2005) demanded "immediate" externment of "undesirable" politicians who could indulge in "horse-trading and intimidation".

"I have sought protection of all MLAs, particularly those newly elected, as undesirable elements pose potential threat to them," Sinha told reporters emerging from a meeting with Governor Buta Singh.

"Since no party or combination has obtained majority, several parties may try to poach on them, either through persuasion or intimidation. I have requested the Governor to ensure that this does not happen," he said.

Stating that "unconstitutional power centres" had emerged in the State, the BPCC (Bihar Pradesh Congress Committee) chief while replying to a question said, "Why only Laloo, BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) heavyweights like Arun Jaitley and Pramod Mahajan are among those who are a potential threat to the newly elected MLAs."

In reply to another question, Sinha said State Congressmen were against extending support to the RJD.

"We should not have any relation with RJD, which indulged in mudslinging against Congress president Sonia Gandhi and masterminded an attack on my office here yesterday", Sinha, who finished a poor third from Patna (central) constituency, said.

Asked if he had submitted any letter to Governor stating that ten MLAs of his party would not extend support to RJD in Government formation, Sinha said, "Since the RJD has not yet staked its claim to form the Government we did not mention it. Moreover, party high command's directive on the issue is still awaited."