Rediff On The NeT: The Rediff Interview/ Giridhar Gamang


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December 6, 1999

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The Rediff Interview/ Giridhar Gamang

'CM's job is not a bed of roses'

Giridhar Gamang was a member of Parliament for 28 years, before he was handpicked to succeed J B Patnaik as Orissa chief minister, who had to bow out in controversial circumstances. Nine months later, Gamang finds himself in a piquant situation - neither a CM nor an MP. In an interview with Bibhuti Mishra, the former CM opens up.

You would surely like to forget this short but bitter reign?

No, why should I forget? It was not a reign. I got an opportunity to serve the people as commanded by the high command. I did my duty to the best of my ability. I did not harm anybody or misuse my powers. So I relinquish without any bitterness or regrets.

You always talk about the high command. Is bowing to it in the best tradition of democracy?

Why, what's the problem? It was the high command that made me CM. I have gladly carried out whatever responsibilities were assigned to me. So I have to be grateful to the high command, who else?

But it seems the high command did not stand by you?

It is not like that. Under the circumstances she felt that I should give way to others. That is fine by me. I shall still serve people as an MLA and am ready for whatever duty is assigned to me. I have never asked for anything in my life and so no regrets.

You are perceived as a failure in handling the fallout of the cyclone?

It is not an easy job but I think I did my best to see that the cyclone-affected are nursed well. The relief work has, of course, been hampered by the week-long crisis of change of guard in the state.

Do you accept that there was a conspiracy against you?

I have no rancour against anyone. What happened is part of democracy and a CM's job is not a bed of roses.

But you had rubbed some people the wrong way by your actions, like dropping some ministers of the J B Patnaik ministry or removing the political appointee chairmen of 21 corporations.

Whatever decision was taken was in the best interests of the state and the people. There was nothing personal. If some people took it otherwise I cannot help it.

Was there any particular problem you faced as CM?

Well, I faced many problems but then that is natural. But it was a short period and I did not get the kind of cooperation I expected

Do you feel this stint as CM has damaged your image?

No, I was always known for my commitment and I think that is intact.

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