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The Atal Bihari Vajpayee Chat

Puneet (Tue Dec 24 20:14:43 1996 IST):

Atal Ji: Namaskar..

Atalji, what is your party's gameplan in Uttar Pradesh? And when will the present uncertainity end?

Namaskar Mr. Vajpayee, Wish you a very happy birthday.

***** Many Many Happy Returns to Atalji *****

Namaskar Mr. Vajpayee, Wish you a very happy birthday.

Atalji, will BJP support the call for a national govt. in case the present govt. falls What do you think of the present economic environment in the country?

Hello Vajpayee Ji: I wish you a long and a healthy life on your coming 70th birthday. I have two questions for you. 1. Because of your two weeks in office, India took a strong stand on CTBT. You deserve congrats on that. Why did you stop short of declaring India as a Nuclear Power? 2. Given the demographic ingrdients of our society, would it not be better for the BJP ( and hence India) to open its doors for all in practice rather than in theory?

Hi guys...waiting for atalji

ABVPji, then what happens to your Swadeshi if you wish for support from people abroad..

Hi guys...waiting for atalji

Namaskar Atalji: For last ten years our parliamentarians are witnessing a Hung parliament situation. Is it the responsibility of Common man to shout against this. Why can't our parliamentarians look for a stable govt. The type of present Govt. running India at such crucial stage where both international politics and trade need a day to day close watch, Such situation are no good. Where OUr PM look more closely to Karnataka than India on international level.

Atal ji, How do you think a "UNIFORM CIVIL CODE" can be implemented in a country as diverse as India? I heard the debate on this topic between you and PVN on the TV. Your views Sir.

Atal ji, Will like to know your views about the Deve Gowda Govt. and do you think it can complete its' term.

Namaskar Atalji: For last ten years our parliamentarians are witnessing a Hung parliament situation. Is it the responsibility of Common man to shout against this. Why can't our parliamentarians look for a stable govt. The type of present Govt. running India at such crucial stage where both international politics and trade need a day to day close watch, Such situation are no good. Where OUr PM look more closely to Karnataka than India on international level.

Namaste Atalji, Wishing you a happy B'day in advance. And prayers for many more years of healthy years of life to you

***** Many Many Happy Returns to Atalji *****

Atal ji, May we know your views on Article 370 of the Constitution?

namaskar Mr. Vajpayee, first of all Happy Birthday!! we all are very proud to have a Statesman like you in the Parliament. how do u justify BJP opposing the Miss World Contest? After all, who are we to judge what is right or wrong?

ABVPji, You often say that minorities should come into the mainstream for their survival in India. But what concrete steps have you taken to implement this. A minority will always think that he is unsafe when your party comes to the power. It will go a long way if you appoint any minority partymen at top level posts in your party.

A long term demand of industrialists/businessmen in India has been provision of an exit policy. Does this figure anywhere in your plans?

Atalji, A suggestion. I think that BJP should take a lead and request Supreme COurt to have a re-look at all grey areas in the Constitution, e.g. governor's role in case of a hung parliament and issue CLEAR-CUT GUIDELINES.

The first question that I would like put to you is, do you still believe in our political system?

Namaskar Atal Ji, The corruption and scam charges which most of the politicians are facing do they have a moral right to be in parliament?. When charges are levelled against any MP why he is not disqualified from entering parliament till the charges are proved to be wrong? Special courts should be created and cases should be dealt more effeciently. Does BJP has any agenda for setting up special trial courts related to corruption in high places.

kalyan: the party is gaining strength in the north-east region. a good beginning has been made. however some more time will be required to give us results. already the party has secured some success in Assam. Our voting percentage has gone up in Tripura. As for your question regarding illegal imigration is an important issue. it is one our national agenda. We have launched a nation-wide campaign to make the people aware of this problem and to compel the government to take effective steps to stop further illegal immigration, to identify infiltrators who have come into the country and to ask them to leave. unfortunately, other political parties do not think of national security. they think of their votebank. recently when the new prime minister of Bangladesh was in Delhi, I had rauised this question with her and she assured me that meaningful steps will be taken to stop further influx. We have done a detailed study of how many people have come illegally into our country and the number goes into millions. this is a serious problem and the party is taking all steps to focus on this issue.

Atalji, A suggestion. I think that BJP should take a lead and request Supreme COurt to have a re-look at all grey areas in the Constitution, e.g. governor's role in case of a hung parliament and issue CLEAR-CUT GUIDELINES.

C'mon ABVPji, Snatch the keyboard and answer the questions... Entire India looks upon you as the messiah...

A long term demand of industrialists/businessmen in India has been provision of an exit policy. Does this figure anywhere in your plans?

Atal ji, what is your vision for the next elections which I expect sometime in April-June'97 ?

Atalji, when does the BJP plan to forget about Ayodhya and start to worry about economic development?

Once again Sir, How do you think a "UNIFORM CIVIL CODE" can be implemented in a country as diverse as India?

Namaskar Atalji: For last ten years our parliamentarians are witnessing a Hung parliament situation. Is it the responsibility of Common man to shout against this. Why can't our parliamentarians look for a stable govt. The type of present Govt. running India at such crucial stage where both international politics and trade need a day to day close watch, Such situation are no good. Where OUr PM look more closely to Karnataka than India on international level.

***** Many Many Happy Returns to Atalji *****

What is the BJP's position in UP in the current crisis?

Namaskar Atalji...Happy Birthday....

Atalji: Why is it that despite the fact that U R the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, no attention is being paid for conservation of Hindi in a Country like Nepal where More than a crore people speak Hindi! The language is dying as a result of deliberate policy being pursued by the Nepalese Government! This while MPs go for trips to Latin America on the pretext of visiting Suriname for Wishwa Hindi Sammelan! Your speech in UN was perhaps the last concrete thing the MEA did for Hindi!

Atalji, What do you have to say about BJP's position in the south? I know BJP is gaining support of the people from north and the west....

***** Many Many Happy Returns to Atalji *****

Vagabond: Please do not use HTML coding.

ABVPji, CommonMan is upset cuz you arent answering his boiling questions...

Thank you Mr. Vajpayee. It was rather regretable that Mr. I. K. Gujral did not put the illegal immigration issue on the table during his recent trip to Bangladesh, and our home minister currently does not even acknowledge the existance of such a problem.

Atalji Namashkar.

Why is it that your party knowingly gets into forming '12 day wonders'. First at the centre and now apparently you are heading for a similar fate in UP?? Won't it be better for your party to wait for the right time and form a govt. which last for a decent tenure?

Atalji, another suggestion. I think, It is in BJP's country interest to go ahead with tie-up with BSP (however bad they may be) not only for the UP govt, but for the General ELections as well, and gain DECISIVE advantage in states like, UP, Bihar, MP and Punjab, and continue to support Mayawati in UP, bartering for a support at Centre. What is your views, considering that BSP has 10-22% of votes in the above mentioned states (with BJP's 20% to 40%)

Hello Sir! A very Happy Birth Day to U for tomorrow!

atal ji, The one thing I liked about the PVN govt. was when he sent a capable man like you to the UN. i think that the greatest thing about our country is that we come together in a crisis and that is why I am never disheartened in spite of the many problems faced by our country.

Cut it Vagabond... you could do better in ordinary text

Atalji, when does the BJP plan to forget about Ayodhya and start to worry about economic development?

Namaskar Atalji: For last ten years our parliamentarians are witnessing a Hung parliament situation. Is it the responsibility of Common man to shout against this. Why can't our parliamentarians look for a stable govt. The type of present Govt. running India at such crucial stage where both international politics and trade need a day to day close watch, Such situation are no good. Where OUr PM look more closely to Karnataka than India on international level.

Hullo, Mr Vajpayee. Good to be talking with you in cyberspace. We are delighted having you with us this evening. I hope you enjoy the experience. Many people have logged in from all over the world. And from all of them and from all of us at Rediff On The NeT A Very Happy Birthday!

Atalji, as a continuation of my question regarding our belief on our political system, why is that there is rampant corruption? Politicians and bureaucrats have too much power and the system does not check these people? Or else, how is it possible for them to amass wealth and go scot-free. It is only once that a politician was arrested for corruption charges? Isn't it pathetic?

MR.VAJPAYEE, MANY HAPPY RETURNS OF THE DAY ! HOW IS BJP GOING TO FARE IN THE NEXT GENERAL ELECTIONS?DO YOU THINK IT WILL GET THE MAJORITY VOTES? WHAT IS THE PARTY'S POLICY FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE NATION?

Hey Guys... I think ABVPji is busy with something else... We better shut off and mind our own business too...

sekhar: article 370 was included in the constitution as a temporary provision. I still vividly remember when a member had moved a Bill in Parliament asking for the deletion of Article 370 and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was the Prime Minister and it was he who replied to the debate. Nehruji had clearly said that Article 370 was being gradually eroded and a day will come when it will disappear from the Constitution. The commonman in Jammu and Kashmir does not want a special status. All he wants is security, economic wellbeing and good governance. Article 370 has raised a psychological barrier between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the country. we are not asking for deletion of Article 370 because Jammu and Kashmir is a Muslim-majority area. in fact, those who want to retain Article 370 are motivated by communal considerations. Let all states be at par and all should be treated equally.

Hello Vajpayee Ji: Can I have your answer to the two questions I submitted earlier to you? Dr. Varinder Sharma

Common Man: Patience and you will be rewarded with an answer.

C'mon ABVPji, give short and answers to the point...

Atalji, first let me wish you many happy returns on turning 70! As a seasoned parlimentarian and one who is in the political stream in India for long, can you please tell as to what ails the political system in India? What will be your suggestion to improve the quality of people in politics and to deal firmly, the criminalisation of politics? What's the way you think is the right thing to make the intelligensia enter politics?

Thank you Sir for responding to my question on the article 370. I would be glad if you answered my question on the Uniform Civil Code.

Atalji, I have two questions: 1. Your oration carries the crowd.When will you carry the country on your shoulders? 2. Your wisdom can show us the end of the tunnel of corruption. When will you crush the epidemic of corruption and fly the banner of BJP as a symbol of truth ? WE WANT TO LIVE IN PEACE.

Atalji & Jasmeet Singh, Why do you not tell people that if only you had agreed to 1) do horse trading or agreed to give 2 ministership to a 4 member party (Cong - Tiwari in the UF govt) and, 2) agree to finance AP govt with Rs.3000 crore support from already empty central coffers as per the demand of Naidu, You could easily have got the majority. That you didnot fall for such low standards, which all others seem to have fallen into, should be taken as a VICTORY and NOT DEFEAT.

pradeep: the BJP is fully committed to eradicating corruption from administration and from public life. Already there is a law against corruption and special courts exist. We are in favour of speedy disposal of corruption cases, impartial investigation without political interference and exemplary punishment for the guilty. I believe that these steps will go a long way in ensuring probity in public life and cleanliness in administration.

Namaskar Atalji: For last ten years our parliamentarians are witnessing a Hung parliament situation. Is it the responsibility of Common man to shout against this. Why can't our parliamentarians look for a stable govt. The type of present Govt. running India at such crucial stage where both international politics and trade need a day to day close watch, Such situation are no good. Where OUr PM look more closely to Karnataka than India on international level. Question2: Are we seeing another Wadhers in the form of K;yan singh or dwivedi in UP. Needs your immediate attention other wise UP will turn like Gujarat, Your opinion sought

Isn't the BJP a communal party, right down to its very soul? Then how can you propound on secularism? Does the BJP know the meaning of the word secularism?

Mr Vajpayee, thank you for your response. I want to ask you whether there is a definite mood in the BJP to usher in a presidential form of government for India? Do you think it is more representative of the popular mandate and how do you plan to bring it in?

madhup : Where is your horse sense eh?

Mr Vajpayee, thank you for your response. I want to ask you whether there is a definite mood in the BJP to usher in a presidential form of government for India? Do you think it is more representative of the popular mandate and how do you plan to bring it in?

Atalji: The present Constitution provides for No escape route for conversion to a Presidential System of Government! How can your views on the change of system be implemented and still have legitimacy under a constitution which defines Parliamentary democracy as one of the Basic features of the Constitution!

Atalji, I remember you having mooted the question on changing the parliamentary system to a more viable one? Is it b'cause of your frustration with the current system? If so, what form of governance do you believe in?

Atalji: can I expect you views on the two question i asked before?

Namaskar Atalji...Happy Birthday....

Atal ji, We know that great leaders like Nehru, patel and you were enthused by the Feedom struggle to enter public Life. What motivation is there for us , the youth of india , to take up politics?

madhup: thanks.

Atalji: Considering the present political situation in India, where not only the the central govt., but also the govts. in states such as UP are in a case of crisis, what is the stand of the BJP regarding this ? Will you be open to a coalition in UP, or would you rather have yet another round of elections? What can the common man expect from the govt, and BJP, then?

Atalji, What was your stance after the demolition of Babri Masjid? Did you support that movement? If not.... then what was your opinion?

Atalji.. what are your prospects on the future of India

Atalji I am a Hindu and am aware of all the atrocities and misdeeds of various rulers India had, but I never felt that those wrongs could be set right if we came down on my minority neighbour and somewhere down the line all history personal or national needs to be forgotten as I cannot be held responsible for a deed of my grandfather not to talk about of my great grand- father whom I do not know from Adam. Have you never felt it this way or is your carving for power so much that you can let the blood of millions (of poor people) flow and rule the land of hatred.

Mr Vajpayee, as you enter your seventieth year, what is your vision for India? Is it an India that is divided on the basis of everything? Religion, Caste, Economic disparity?

Atalji: Do You seed a Wadhera in UP or NOT?

Atalji, what are your views on the Kashmire issue?

Atalji, I am your admirer. How's your backbone ?

HOW IS THE BJP ANY DIFFERENT FROM THE CONGRESS-I ESPECIALLY AFTER THE GUJARAT EVENTS.

Namaskar Atalji: For last ten years our parliamentarians are witnessing a Hung parliament situation. Is it the responsibility of Common man to shout against this. Why can't our parliamentarians look for a stable govt. The type of present Govt. running India at such crucial stage where both international politics and trade need a day to day close watch, Such situation are no good. Where OUr PM look more closely to Karnataka than India on international level.

Atalji, What was your stance after the demolition of Babri Masjid? Did you support that movement? If not.... then what was your opinion?

Suparn, Can I request you to, ask Atalji, to give a small message for us NRIs at the end of the Chat, dealing with OUR general disenchantment with politics

Atalji: Do You see a Wadhera in UP or NOT

Sir: Do you think that a new political centre can be established in the Indian polity today! With the polity shifting to the right and U being a liberal in what is essentially a rightist formation, can this new political formation be built around you? Would U have the killing instinct to lead such a new social coalition?

Atalji, I am your admirer. How's your backbone ?

GOI: Let me assure you that very soon the BJP flag will fly high. And we shall achieve this without sacrificing or compromising on principles. Sekhar: the BJP is in favour of a uniform civil code because the framers of the Constitution had included it as one of the Directive Principles. We have common criminal law and there is no reason why civil law also should not be the same for all citizens irrespective of religion and caste. In Goa we have common civil law and Muslims have no problems with that law. More and more Muslim women are demanding equaltreatment and it will be very difficult for obscurantists to resist their demand. The party believes in gender equality.

ABVPji, Your views on Economic Front... Will you carry on with the reforms carried out during the congress and UF regime...

Atalji, what are your views on the Kashmire issue?

Madhup: Atalji would welcome such arequest from you, so why don't you go ahead and ask him to do so, he may comply.

Vajpayeeji, Your views about the RSS being a unit which can instill discipline among the youth of India.

Namaskar Atalji: For last ten years our parliamentarians are witnessing a Hung parliament situation. Is it the responsibility of Common man to shout against this. Why can't our parliamentarians look for a stable govt. The type of present Govt. running India at such crucial stage where both international politics and trade need a day to day close watch, Such situation are no good. Where OUr PM look more closely to Karnataka than India on international level.

Atalji, What was your stance after the demolition of Babri Masjid? Did you support that movement? If not.... then what was your opinion?

Atalji, I am your admirer. How's your backbone ?

ABVP ji.. Namastae and Happy B'day! Considering the new world order that power should be given to the mature youth.. dont you think that you are old and should manage the back stage politics and guide the nation thru younger generation, instead of going yourself to the power?

Atalji, May I request an answer for my earlier questions? I would also like you to tell as to whether you see the ostracisation of BJP by the other political parties in I ndia is likely to end soon? What are the steps taken by BJP to tell the people that you are not as communal as other parties ( though they claim themselves to be secular!!??)

Shakti, I think you are off the mark when you say the polity has moved to the right. The Indian people, in my imp[ession, will always like a centrist polity, and whether Mr Vajpayee would be acceptable to this force is doubtful.

Atalji: Is dual citizenship for NRI's is not in the interest of India? Your view.

Atalji, What was your stance after the demolition of Babri Masjid? Did you support that movement? If not.... then what was your opinion?

Saturn (Tue Dec 24 20:40:55 1996 IST): Atalji I am a Hindu and am aware of all the atrocities and misdeeds of various rulers India had, but I never felt that those wrongs could be set right if we came down on my minority neighbour and somewhere down the line all history personal or national needs to be forgotten as I cannot be held responsible for a deed of my grandfather not to talk about of my great grand- father whom I do not know from Adam. Have you never felt it this way or is your carving for power so much that you can let the blood of millions (of poor people) flow and rule the land of hatred.

Atalji, will you carry on the economic reforms as a second derrivative of the ones carried about during the Congress I regime??

Atalji, Can I request you to give a small message for us NRIs at the end of the Chat, dealing with OUR general disenchantment with politics

Thanks Atalji for answering my question on the Uniform Civil Code. Do you think that the present day govts. tend to be reactive govts., i.e,they take steps to solve immediate problems without caring for long term problems. Your views please?

Happy Birthday Atalji!

Atalji: Is dual citizenship for NRI's not in the interest of India? Your view.

Atalji, What was your stance after the demolition of Babri Masjid? Did you support that movement? If not.... then what was your opinion?

Atalji, Your views on the badmaash Governor of U.P i.e BHandari babu.

Welcome Atalji, Now that the elections in BJP is scheduled, do you thaink you are the automatic choice for the post of `Party Leader'?

Where do you see the BJP going? Your constituency -- and I used to be one of them -- feel your party's position as a disciplined force above the hurly burly of petty power politics is today buried many fathoms deep beneath the Gujarat mire and what is happening in Maharashtra today. How can you ever sanction an alliance with a political party like the Shiv Sena whose hand in the Bombay riots of 1992 and 1993 is only too well known?

Jaswant, I do agree with your view. But don't you think that majority of the parties in India are trying to show that they are secular. But in reality they are not and are quite active in caste based politics. I feel that secular politics should not be based on caste too.

Atalji, What was your stance after the demolition of Babri Masjid? Did you support that movement? If not.... then what was your opinion?

Namaskar Atalji: For last ten years our parliamentarians are witnessing a Hung parliament situation. Is it the responsibility of Common man to shout against this. Why can't our parliamentarians look for a stable govt. The type of present Govt. running India at such crucial stage where both international politics and trade need a day to day close watch, Such situation are no good. Where OUr PM look more closely to Karnataka than India on international level.

Mr Vajpayee, we at Rediff have just received a report from our correspondent in Lucknow, which says that 65 BJP MLAs and a dozen or so MPs have threatened revolt in the event of the BJP extending support to a Mayawati-led BSP government in Uttar Pradesh. Would you care to clarify your party's position on the issue, please?

Atalji, will you carry on the economic reforms as a second derrivative of the ones carried about during the Congress I regime??

Atalji, Your views on the badmaash Governor of U.P i.e BHandari babu.

Atalji, I am from Hyderabad, I am always a BJP person. But lately I am feeling uncomfortable with the aliances like with NTR TDP. In my view these aliance will reduce our party standards. Please comment

Namaskar Atalji: For last ten years our parliamentarians are witnessing a Hung parliament situation. Is it the responsibility of Common man to shout against this. Why can't our parliamentarians look for a stable govt. The type of present Govt. running India at such crucial stage where both international politics and trade need a day to day close watch, Such situation are no good. Where OUr PM look more closely to Karnataka than India on international level.

ABVPji, Dont you think the commonman is battered left and right by you people (politicians) while fighting for power... why cant u people think of being like gandhi..(M.K Gandhi )

awadesh: No, i do not see a Vaghela in Uttar Pradesh. As for hung parliament, although this time the verdict of the people has been fractured, this does happen at times and it is at best a passing phase. Sooner than later the people will realise that political stability can only be ensured if they give a siingle party clear majority.

Atlji, Namaskaar aur janma-din mubarak.

Atalji don't you think that we are not providing enough impetus to find an alternative for pertroleum? Has it something to do with total disinterest for the nation or is it a part of the petroleum kick-highs?

Atalji, What was your stance after the demolition of Babri Masjid? Did you support that movement? If not.... then what was your opinion?

Hi Atalji, calling from US. Many happy returns of the day!!

Atalji, I think the Kashmir issue is primarily b'cause Kashmir is being given a special constitutional status in the form of article 370. Now, how do you think by according more autonomy, we could alleviate the problem when the problem is that there is already too much of autonomy. In my opinion, the solution is to bring Kashmir more into the national mainstream and treat it as any other Indian state.

Atalji: DO YOU SEE A 'WADHERA' IN UP?

Atalji, Your views on the badmaash Governor of U.P i.e BHandari babu.

Dear Vajpayee Ji: Looking at the situation in Gujarat, Delhi, and now in U.P., Is BJP becoming a dysfunctional family? What will happen to this organization after you?

Hey prem, That is hot news man. They say politics makes strange bedfellows, but there couldnt have been stranger bedfellows than BJP and BSP.

Atalji, what is your opinion on WHO report on child labor practices in India ?

Atalji, how do you think the Ayodhya issue could help our country?

Mr Vajpayee, you pointed out the dangers of coalition politics. Does this mean that you are none too pleased about your own party's experiments in that direction - like, say, the one in Maharashtra with the Shiv Sena?

Atalji, Your views on the badmaash Governor of U.P i.e BHandari babu.

Dear Atalji, With the current Judicial Activisim and coming to light of all the scams - the PCA - the Prevention of Corruption Act shd be strengthened further. But we see many of the politicians are working towards relaxing the same with regard to the MLAs and MP and the reason suggested being that some politicians are ustilizing PCA for personal vendetta. Whatever be the reason, for the common man, its enlightening to know how well comman man's money (taxes we pay) is swindled away. What is your stand on this PCA? Do you subscribe to the idea of altering the same? Pls respond. Thanks!

Sekhar>> Stranger ones could still be in the pipeline... how's about Mulayam Singh Yadav and Mayawati in a political marriage of convenience? The Made for Each Other guys would have a ball with that one, what say?

How does the future of BJP look in 1997?

Atalji, What was your stance after the demolition of Babri Masjid? Did you support that movement? If not.... then what was your opinion?

Atal ji, What do you think of the issue of "BRAIN DRAIN"?

shakti: these labels of right and left have lost all meaning. The BJP is a forward-looking party and I am quite comfortable here. saturn: we are not interested in "undoing" the wrongs of histiry but in ensuring that these "wrongs" arenot repeated again. We definitely do not blame the present generation Muslims for the crimes committed Muslim invaders. But we do expect the present generation of Muslims to disassociate itself from the past misdeeds. The BJP's doors are open to all Indians irrespective of their caste or religious identity. The leader of the BJP is Mr Sikander Bakht. And I would like Muslims to join the party in large numbers and subscribe to our nationalist vision of India.

ABVPji.... CommonMan is :-(

Atalji, do you really think the Indian public will ever chose a single party ?

Atalji, Your views on the badmaash Governor of U.P i.e BHandari babu.

Atalji: All of us retre! Most at 58! Some at 65! Why don't politicians retire even when they are 70 or 80! Can we expect the next BJP President and Second BJP PM to be somebody born after Independence?

Atalji: Don't you think a presidential system is better that what we have in India. Only the people who believe in corrupt politice, i.e., trading of MPs to get majority like JMM case will tend to go with the present system. I feel please do not give people to decide for 4-10 candidates for any MP position, aperson can be good locally but party for nation is different.

atalji, what do you think about Jayalalita and her assets?!!! :)

Well prem, I didnt think of that marriage. That sure would be the mother of all "strange bedfellows".

Could you, Mr Vajpyee, identify what the past misdeeds by Muslims were? And have you disassociated from the misdeeds that your ancestors -- the brahmins of India-- perpetuated on the lower castes?

THE CONGRESS PARTY WAS SETUP BY MEN OF GREAT VISIONS AND IDEALS BUT NOW AFTER GETTING INTOXICATED WITH POWER FOR FOUR DECADES ,THE PARTY IS NOW FILLED UP WITH ROGUES OF THE FIRST ORDER AND THE PARTY HAS GONE TO DOGS.BJP IS CONSIDERED TO BE A BETTER PARTY AT THE CENTRE BECAUSE IT NEVER HAD MUCH TIME AT THE CENTRE TO RESTORE TO CORRUPTION.IS NOT THIS TRUE.

Mr Vajpayee, very curious, your answer to Saturn. You say that the BJP's goal is to ensure that wrongs are not repeated. If demolishing a mandir to build a mosque, vide Babar, was a wrong, how does demolishing that mosque to build a mandir jell with your determination not to "repeat wrongs"? Just curious...

Your first stint as the Prime Minister of the country was the shortest term in history. Tell us what did you in those few days. Was the excercise worthwhile for the country or for the party?

Atalji: Is Dual citizenship to NRI's not in inerest of India?

Atalji my first eligible vote went to the BJP and I remember canvassing for this party even when none of my family members were official members of the party or any other party for that matter. But the Gujarat,UP and even the few days you had at the Center has totally left us disenchanted. Do you think BJP will come out of all this internal bickerings and can we look up to it.

Atalji, your response to shakti is heartening. But, how is this possible when the BJP convention at Jaipur took a more hardline, pro-hindu stance. I am myself a BJP sympathiser. My only problem is the religious issues and their pertinence to the party's principles. How could we be a nationalist party and the same time be pro-religious. The truth is that India is diversified, be it its strength or weakness. Our only concern must be to prosper and progress.

Atalji: Don't you think a presidential system is better that what we have in India. Only the people who believe in corrupt politice, i.e., trading of MPs to get majority like JMM case will tend to go with the present system. I feel please do not give people to decide for 4-10 candidates for any MP position, aperson can be good locally but party for nation is different.

Atal ji, Once again,what Do you think of the "Brain Drain" issue?

Hello to all, Atalji: I feel it is in BJP's interest to keep it out of power in UP because once a BJP gov. is formed the "secular" forces emerge. Also it gains public sympathy.

Atalji, IS A SINGLE PARTY MAJORITY POSSIBLE, ANYMORE ?

Atalji:what are your & BJP's resolutions for the new year?

Atalji, just now it has been reported in the star news that BJP has admitted that top level talks with BSP was on to form the govt. in UP. Will BJP give in to BSP's desires? In that case what's Kalyan singh's position? Do you think that BJP can be kept together in UP if BSP is given an upper hand?

Dear Atalji, What would you do if you were made the CM of J&K?

Atalji, What was your stance after the demolition of Babri Masjid? Did you support that movement? If not.... then what was your opinion?

Atalji namaste! many happy returns on your 70th birthday. It has been more than 6 months, since BJP has stepped down. Every one knows that elections are imminent. How prepared is BJP to face it and gain from the unstable conditions existing in the other parties like Cong., JD ?

Atalji: I just noticed Vagabonds Question about Hindi! Are U going to do any thing about Hindi in Nepal? I just visited BP Koirala Institute in Dharan! The Tarai people in Nepal cant even study Hindi in School! Hindi is not allowed as a medium of instruction! Shankar Dayal Singh tried to do something before he died!But your friends like Dr. Jogendra Jha & Baleshwar Aggrawal seem to have given up the cause in absence of help from people like U who can do something!

Hey Prem,Is Atalji still around? Havnt been hearing from him.

Sriraman>> Hi, just adding to that news you quoted from Star, we at Rediff also hear that around 65 MLAs and 12-odd MPs from UP have threatened to revolt if the BJP supports Mayawati. We did ask Mr Vajpayee for his response... still waiting. :-)

Dear Atalji, what do you forsee the political scenario to be around year 2000?

Atalji: I just noticed Vagabonds Question about Hindi! Are U going to do any thing about Hindi in Nepal? I just visited BP Koirala Institute in Dharan! The Tarai people in Nepal cant even study Hindi in School! Hindi is not allowed as a medium of instruction! Shankar Dayal Singh tried to do something before he died!But your friends like Dr. Jogendra Jha & Baleshwar Aggrawal seem to have given up the cause in absence of help from people like U who can do something!

Sekhar>> Yes, Mr Vajpayee is still around. He is logged in from Delhi, trouble is the line (courtesy MTNL) is painfully slow. Hang in there...

surendra:the bjp has not criticised judicial activism. when the executive fails to act against corruption and parliament turns a blind eye to misdeeds of ministers and m.p.s, the people have no other option but to knock at the doors of the judiciary. as for the prevention of corruption act. This act as it stand today has a lacuna and this was pointed out by the orissa high court in one of its judgements. this lacuna does not make it mandatory for the prosecuting agency to seek anybody's permission. this lacuna needs to be removed. but this does not mean that mps and mlas will not be held accountable.

Atalji for god's sake let us tell that we are not interested in mosques or churches. Let them prosper where they are except ofcourse not allowing them to be places of misdeeds. Please if you can take care of my brethren who lives on the roads of bombay or the night shelters of Delhi at 2.3 degree centigrades. Even your verbal promise will guarantee you my vote.

Thanks prem.

Atalji, Please explain all these alliance, Sena, NTR TP, and may be BSP. After all these years worth of build up, is BJP turning into another typical party running after power

Atalji: R U there? Or already Celebrating your Birthday?

Is Atalji on-line? Why does he not answer contrary to his oratory?

BJP although idealistic, is on a reverse gear - they live in the past - it thrives on disharmony and mass-hysteria -> do you as a leader think it remove the sins existing in our society.

I think the KASHMIRE situation should be resolved permenantly. People die everyday because of the terrorists and I think it is about time that things stop. India is a hindu state.. and shall remain so.. what are your views????

Atalji, You havnt answered my question on "Brain Drain'.

Hello! Atalji! Many happy returns for tomorrow!

Atalji, there is so much corruption in the country. BJP was SUPPOSED to be the non corrupt party. Then why did the Gujarat govt fall ?

Nikhil? Suprna? Is Atalji On?

I think the KASHMIRE situation should be resolved permenantly. People die everyday because of the terrorists and I think it is about time that things stop. India is a hindu state.. and shall remain so.. what are your views????

Sekhar, Atalji seem not to be answering many questions.I am also wondering like many of our friends, whether he is really on line ??!!

Atalji ... r u there..

Atalji, What do you think of the education system in india? Do you think that it fails to instill a spirit of belonging to india?

maybe he went to the bathroom??!:-)

Atalji, When are planning to publish your next poem collections? Do you have any plan to write a novel? Who is your favorite author?

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Atal Ji : Are you answering to those questions only that fit your party's world view? Why have you not answered my questions?

Atalji, when and how you think criminalisation of politics in india would go and what are the steps you think, are to be taken to make the intelligensia join the political stream??

Hello! Everybody! Namaskar Atalji! Kal ki bahut bahut Shubhkamnayen!

??

I guess we are all waiting for atalji to answer a few of our questions before we ask him any more.

Guys, the connection from Mr Vajpayee's residence was lost for a bit, but the REdiff team is restoring it ASAP... hang in there...

Prem, Is the chat over?? Has atalji left the scene??

Suprna! How can everybody else be able to enter the System and Atalji can't?

hi sorry we lost connexion and i'm back.

GUYS AND GIRLS, LOST CONNECTION COURTESY MTNL... WORKING ON PUTTING IT BACK ASAP, BEAR WITH US... :-)

Atalji whats happening in UP ? How can the central govt politicians get away with such blatant misuse of constitution ? Please suggest a way to improve the quality of politicians.

Hi Rediff: Is Atal Ji there? Can you inform us if the chat is over?

Because of the loss of connection, do we have an extention in the chatting time?

Indranil Chakraborty! Is Atalji Here?

Shash,I have also asked Atalji on similar lines - how to get intelligensia into politics??

Guys they have got the connection. Fire Away

varinder and my friend from harvard. could u both pls post your questions once again.

Prem, how long is the chat up to ? Will Atalji answer all our questions ??!!

atal Bihari vajpayee : Are you sure you R Atalji?

Atal ji, What can we do to produce a sportsman who can win us a Gold at the Olympics?

Atal Ji What can you do to keep BJP from becoming a dysfunctional family?

Looks like Atalji has lost the questions. Should all of us have to fire again??!!

rajitha: the bjp has never spoken against coalition politics. but it is one thing to have coalition government comprising two or three parties but it is quite a different thing to have a coalition of 13 parties as we have the united front, with each party subscribing to a conflicting ideology. the bjp-shiv sena government in maharashtra is doing fine and there are no ideological differences.

Atal ji, How are your activities in the field of literature going on? Do you plan to write a novel? If yes, What would be the subject of the novel? Who is your favorite author?

Typical Rediff Act! Same happened in Madhavrao Scindhia Chat! Ajit Balakrishnan: R. U . listening? Pl. fire this guy suprna! and that twit Nikhil Laxman!

Atalji, when we Indians go abroad, everybody thinks of India in a negative manner. There are problems in all countries, India is much better off than most of them, but we always focus on India's negative aspects. Why is this ? We desparately need to improve our self image. 'Made In INDIA' brand should be marketed and the image as such needs to be cultivated. How can we, as Indians staying abroad contribute to this ?

Atalji, Just curious. What kind of security is being provided to you in the rediff office?

Dear Atalji: I had following questions for you. Here they are: 1. Because of your stand, India survived the CTBT onslaught. Why did you not go for declaring India as a Nuclear power, in fact we are? 2. Can BJP really strive hard to open its door to all rather than verbalising their inclusion. 3. Can we stop BJP from becoming a dysfunctional family?

Atalji, how do you think the U.F. government's assurance for more autonomy is justified? I think the problem due to the special status that Kashmir enjoys? Is the U.f. government blind to see the obvious?

amit:now that the disputed structure at ayodhya does not exist anymore and a temple is already there, it would be in the interest of every community that a permanent temple comes up at the spot. i am confident that this will be supported by all sections of the people.

Mrs Purushottam>> Just a thought... next time you try to dial a number - any number, local, national or international - and find the line cut or the connection given to someone you don't wish to speak to, hope you don't blame Rediff for it. :-) That cut connection was not our fault, ma'am...

namaskar atalji, best wishes on your 70th birthday. I hope you live long enough to become Prime Minister again after this shambu mela is out of power. When do you expect a mid-term election in India?

Mr Vajpayee>> Thanks for your response. Interesting that you stressed on "ideological" differences in the Maharashtra ruling coalition - any other kind of differences existing, sir? For instance, one-upmanship?

jay: jammu and kashmir was, is and shall remain an integral part of india, come what may. the state has to be just, democratic and committed to the welfare of all its citizens, irrespective of their religious identity. the state in india has always been a secular institution. and this is because india has been a hindu majority country. this tradition continues because we continue to be a hindu majority country.

Atalji, I think many of my questions have been lost. I was curious to find 1) whether you still believe in the parliamentary system? If not, as was mooted by you, what form governance is preferred?

Atalji, About all tese allicnaces like with Sena, NTR TDP., and maybe BSP. After all tese years of buldup, is BJP turning inot another polictical party which will do anything for power. Please comment

If you win the electoin. App Bharat ko Hindu Rastra jaher karege.

Atalji: There are some important questions U have missed!Pl. give us your views on : The Presidential System in India-How can it be ushered in without creating Constitutional lacunae! And your personal commitment on Propagation of Hindi! Particularly where people actually want to learn Hindi! Like in Nepal!

Atalji, in Maharashtra Anna Hazare has made charges of corruption against two ministers. I respect Anna Hazare. Why dont BJP look into the matter and come clean ? Is Anna Hazare lying ? Isnt this an opportunity to show the people that BJP is really different from others ?

BJP, in my opinion was a cohesive party, with individuals thinking of the party first. But for the short time the party was in power, in-fighting amongst party-men shattered my illusions. Atalji, how is your party different from other parties? Do you think the part lacks leadership.

What do you think about kashmir problem

In one of your responses you had said that the BJP expects more non-hindu participation in the party. But in the just concluded Jaipur convention the party seemed to have adopted a staunch hindu platform. Is this a dilemma with which the BJP has to live for ever???

*listening*

jasmeet/hemang: sorry for the delay in responding to your query. my vision of india is that of a great country, a strong and prosperous country. a country that is committed to world peace and equality among nations. a country free of social discrimination and gender disparity. a country whose citizens will be free from fear, hunger and corruption -- free of bhay, bhookh aur bhrashtachar.

Namaskar! Atalji!

Atalji,Thanks for giving us an exhibition of your poetic abilities. "BHAY, BHOOKH AUR BHRASHTACHAR",that is a very nice example of Anupraas ALankar(alliteration).

Atalji: Maine kaha Namaskar!

For a long while now everybody knows that Pakistan is bleeding India thru Punjab and J&K Why are we still tolerating this ?

Aap kal 70 Varsh ke hojayenge! Vanprastha Kab Prarambha Karenge! Paanch Varsh baad?

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Namaskar Ataji..

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varindar: bjp is in favour of exercising the nuclear option and declare itself as a nuclear weapon state. as for your second question, we say what we mean and we mean what we say. our doors are open to all communities and let me tell you that a large number of muslims have been joining the party. gujarat was an abberration and the bjp remains very much a functional and functioning family.

Dear Atalji, Pls respond to : what do you foresee the political scenario around year 2000? what would you do if you were made CM of J&K. And another question I wanted to ask and also second the question of Shash, what steps your party would take to promote India outside and is there any chance of India becoming an Asian Tiger by say 2020. Is there atleast 20% chance?

atalji, namaskar i am currently in the us, and planto go back to india in the next year or so. as an individual wanting to do something for my country, what is your advise. i mean look at the problems. the main ones being corruption at the grass root level and our diversity.

waiting

waiting

rajitha: i said that unlike in the 13 party united front, in maharashtra there are no rept no ideological differences between the shiv sena and the bjp. hemang/sash: following anna hazare's allegations, the maharashtra government has ordered a full inquiry by a retired judge. the ministers have in the meanwhile been relieved of their portfolios pending the inquiry. this shows that bjp is a party with a difference.

Hello Atalji! We the young people thought that Congress is a gerontogragy! and Janata Dal is a demonocracy! How is BJP different?

Dear Atal Ji: Thanks a lot for responding to my questions. I wish you a very happy birthday. May God grant you a long and a healthy life. Bye Bye

most of the times i am arguing with my friends about the prospects of going back to india. i have a lot of close friends who are totaly committed to the RSS and BJP. i am not that much worried about politics but the good of the country. i mean look at our history and culture. it i s second to none. but we are lacking in something basic. i think there is a need to identify something as a national issue which will bring the whole country together, irrespective of caste, creed or religion. please reply.

Atalji, how is your party different from other parties? Do you think BJP lacks leadership, for keeping the party dissident-free.

Atalji, what is the political future of Mr. Advani in the BJP ?

waiting. please answer atalji

Atalji, are mathura, ayodhya the most hard-pressing issues for us?

kartik: there is no such dilemma after the national executive meeting at jaipur. our stand on minorities remains the same. i did not suggest the scrapping of the parliamentary system. all that i suggested was that after 50 years of independence, the time has come for stock-taking to see how we have performaed and see whether any changes are required.

(From Ajay Joshi ) Atalji, Namaste! Janma dinki shubh kamnaei! present UF govt days are numbered and elections look certain. why BJP looks so unprepared for this midterm elections? In each and every state, the state units are not prepared for the elections??

Atalji, Regale us with a few lines of your most recent poetry. I would urge my other friends on this chat to ask him for the same.

atalji , still waiting for you reply

Atal: Are U here as bjp spokesman or are u here as an individual! Why r u avoiding question other than those pertaining to the BJP?

Dear Atalji,waiting for your response.

Atalji, How do you rate bureaucrates of our country? Are bureaucrates doing what is expected from them? What can we do to improve the efficiency and efficacy of our civil services? Does it require any changes?

Atalji, what do you think of the rampant corruption charges that have been made in the recent past? PVN, Jayalaitha, and Laloo Prasad Yadav? How could these people amass wealth while in power? and how is ti possible for the charges to surface after their defeat in elections? Is the system not at fault for not nailing these people while in power?

atalji , the BJP-SS has been in power in maharastra ( i come from mumbai ) for some time now. but the corruption at the grass root level is still there. policemen are corrupt, government officials . everywhere you go, the ask you for money. why has this issue not been tacled. and now anna hazare is accusing ministers in ths state governement on corruption charges. ye sab kya ho raha hai. please reply

Certainly, we would like to hear from Atalji either in poetry form or prose doesn't matter

vaidikji: namaskar aur shubh kamnaon ke liye dhanyavad. gamma 456: bjp stands for democracy. vivek/surendra: a great future awaits india and it is the bjp's destined role to gently lead india into the 21st century.

Atalji, I hope this doesn't happen, but if something were to happen to you in the next few months, do you think that BJP would survive with Mr. Advani or Mr. Joshi as the party leaders ? Don't you think the party will break up like Congress I after Indira/Rajiv/Rao ?

If Mr. Kalyan Singh is appointed as BJP president dont U think it will broaden your Party's base and also resolve your Party's immediate problems in UP! He could be the First Backward Prime Minister! And in the process finish Mulayam for good!

kartik: mathura and akshi are not not on the bjp agenda.

Atalji, i would like to repeat my request asking you to quote a few lines of your most recent poem.

sir.i live in america but my heart still belong to Bharat i still think of back home.my heart cry when i see our politician are dividin country in the name of Religion i respect you so much since you visited our college for rally,but how can you be part of party which is so called hindu party why cant you be belong to real BJP?

Atalji, Would you tell us something about your non-political activites? Any new poem collection? Any plan for writing a novel?

atalji , ek bhi sawal ka jawab nahi mila hai. kya sawal sab galat lag raha hai aap ko ?

Atalji, I was BJP sympathizer all mu life, but I am disappointed with allliances like NTRTDP.

Atalji, I hope this doesn't happen, but if something were to happen to you in the next few months, do you think that BJP would survive with Mr. Advani or Mr. Joshi as the party leaders ? Don't you think the party will break up like Congress I after Indira/Rajiv/Rao ?

Atalji, I hope this doesn't happen, but if something were to happen to you in the next few months, do you think that BJP would survive with Mr. Advani or Mr. Joshi as the party leaders ? Don't you think the party will break up like Congress I after Indira/Rajiv/Rao ?

Sir, Please respond to my plea. Show us your artistic side.

pardesi: your suggestion on kalyan singh is interesting and i will place it before my colleagues.

Vivek nayak shares the same thought which most of us Indians do(especially those who have been abroad). We also share the same dilemna. We see that the outside culture is so hollow putting the self before the society. India has so much to offer to the world as regards our social and cultural life ,for the betterment of the life in this world. But the way we are projected is often negative due to total negligence on the part of our politicians/govt. India often does not find a place in the world history books and this in turn has a domino effect on the way the people abroad look at us -esp as "snake charmers". This also has a direct effect on our economic acceptance abroad. Can you as a politician (PM in waiting) suggest/take some measure to rectify this?

Sir: BJP's top leadership will turn 70 tomorrow! Where are the youngsters! Will BJP become a dead Party like Congress! After Vajpayee who? U R about as old as Nehru was when People started asking this Question!

Atalji, it is so heartening to see you remaining so positive in the midst of degenerated political ambience. What is the BJP planning to do politically, in Bihar? The CM is going to be chargesheeted for the fodder scam issue? The BJP has not raised up this issue?

Atalji, is BJP really different from other parties? BJP miniters behave in the same power hungry fashion as compared to ministers from other parties. So what's the big deal about BJP. Is it really worth our vote?

thank you atalji. i have great faith in my country. and am sure that it will be among the best in the 21st century. but the feeling of 'INDIAN-NESS' ( MERA BHARATH MAHAN ) is lacking in the common man. Ram ka naam se yeh bhavan jagrit nahi ho jayegee. tthe BJP has to project something different. please comment.

Atalji, ONCE AGAIN: I hope this doesn't happen, but if something were to happen to you in the next few months, do you think that BJP would survive with Mr. Advani or Mr. Joshi as the party leaders ? Don't you think the party will break up like Congress I after Indira/Rajiv/Rao ?

himanshu/srikant: the bjp, unlike the congress and many other parties, does not revolve around any one individual. it is not a personality-based party, but a cadre-based mass party committed to certain principles. as for mid-term polls, we have given a clarion call to all our workers to be ready for a fresh round of elections. we are fighting fit.

thank you shash. atalji , there are many of us who are here and willing to come back. the future ofany country is it's youth. these are the people who will lead the country forward. you are a leader and have the power to lead us in the right direction. you also have a totaaly clean image in spite of being in politics all these years. please answer my question regarding corruption.

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i am now signing off. i am sorry that i have been unable to reply to all your queries. the response to the chat was overwhelming. i thank all of you for your good wishes on the eve of my birthday. a merry christmas and a very happy new year to all of you. look forward to chatting with you again on the net in the new year. good bye and all the best.

Atalji, Main aapse Chauthi baar pooch raha hoon. hame apni kavitha ki kuch panktiyan sunane ki kripa karen.

Namaskar Atalji: This question may have already been asked Why do you think there is a sudden change in the way the judiciary has been functioning (Judicial Overactivism)? Especially after BJP had assumed power earlier this year.

Namaste atal ji

Atlalji, May be you don't want to answer my question regarding alliances, but is BJP cadre getting resltess that power is co close but yet could note reach... both at centre and in UP

Mr. Vajpayee! Have you written any poems on the Poorvasandhya of your Birthday!

himanshu, i agree with you. the BJP has 4 or five leaders who can be projected nationally. where is the young blood. atalji please comment.

EVERYONE COME ON OVER TO THE SMALL SMOKE FILLED CAFE AND CONTINUE THE CHAT

Atalji, if BJP is not a personality based party, why are there so many personality clashes? e.g. (i) dissidence in Gujrat (ii) Mr. Sikandar Bakth refusing a portfolio. Please reply

EVERYONE COME ON OVER TO THE SMALL SMOKE FILLED CAFE AND CONTINUE THE CHAT

sir ...what message you have for Khalistan supporters in USA and CANADA?

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has atalji signed out.

EVERYONE COME ON OVER TO THE SMALL SMOKE FILLED CAFE AND CONTINUE THE CHAT

Atalji, I remember the time of Bombay bomb blasts. The next day of the blasts the govt had to ask people to STOP donating blood. There was so much vigor amongst the people. But why is it, that it comes forward only at the time of disaster? What steps would you as PM-in-waiting do to tap this spirit ?

Aaarg!!! I must have come a minute earlier!!!

Dear Atalji, Thanks for responding to my question earlier and wish you a successful new year '97.

EVERYONE COME ON OVER TO THE SMALL SMOKE FILLED CAFE AND CONTINUE THE CHAT

EVERYONE COME ON OVER TO THE SMALL SMOKE FILLED CAFE AND CONTINUE THE CHAT

Suprna! Please type Atalji's latest poem! And to hell with the smoke filled Cafe!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. Happy Birthday Atalji.

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EVERYONE COME ON OVER TO THE SMALL SMOKE FILLED CAFE AND CONTINUE THE CHAT

dear suparn. what is the smoke fille cafe

????

sudhir, you've come not minute but a more than an hour late.

Suparn: I bet Nikhil. Ajit and U will edit this out! But how could U handle so important a chat so casually!

vivek nayak see in Mumbai

vivek nayak see you in Mumbai

Suparn: Can I buy U a Vodka! It's been a long time buddy!

Who we really need on this chat is Sitaram Kesri !

ABV, when do you think BJP will be in power again?

CHOW