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The Rediff Interview/Nandini Satpathy

'Look, I find this reservation demand obnoxious'

Many consider Nandini Satpathy, the sexagenarian Congress politician, the finest chief minister Orissa has ever had.

She has stirred a hornet's nest this time by deciding to opt out of the election. Not because of 'failing health', no. But because she feels the Congress is not a party to contest for at this juncture.

Satpathy has had a long innings in active politics, both at the Centre and in the state. She was chief minister for two terms, from 1972-73 and 1974-76.

A mercurial, no-nonsense politician, she is known for her outspokenness. She spoke to Bibhuti Mishra about her decision to stay aloof from the poll. Excerpts:

Is it sanyaas for former firebrand leader Nandini Satpathy?

No. I have not retired from active politics nor from electoral politics. But this time I am not contesting.

Why?

Because I feel that I don't fit into the present-day political scene. The degradation has left me deeply hurt. But I represent my people still.

The disenchantment is also with your own party?

Oh, yes. The Congress is not excluded. I don't want to comment on any particular leader; but it is unfortunate that we have leaders in whom people have lost faith. There is no longer any respect for democracy, with the party workers and leaders clamouring for the so-called high command's ruling. Leaders are even foisted on the state from above. All that we do is follow like a flock of sheep. That is why I decided to stay aloof.

There is a feeling that you have an uneasy relationship with J B Patnaik.

We belong to the same party. I only criticise policies and principles. I have nothing against any person, for I am nobody's rival.

You are a Congress legislator and chairperson of the state planning board. How do you rate the party's chances?

I am no psephologist or soothsayer. I am sure the people have a lot to be disillusioned with the Congress government's performance and the doings of the leaders. But they have to find out what alternative they have and whether they have faith in non-Congress leaders today. Corruption and scams are now not confined to any particular party.

Your party has given tickets to only 13 women candidates. Do you think that is adequate when there is talk of 33 per cent reservation for women?

Look, I find this reservation demand obnoxious. What reservation was behind my success? Women have to come on merit; not because of the favour extended to them just because they are women. I am sure women have the ability to outflank men in any field. They don't need reservation.

You have represented Dhenkanal four times and the adjoining Gondia seat twice. Your husband was an MP twice from there and your son Tathagata Satpathy was once an MLA and once MP. This is the first time in more than three decades that Dhenkanal does not see anyone from the Satpathy family.

Well, I never believed in any politics of dynasty. I feel whether one is in the electoral fray or not, one is always with the people if he/she is a true leader.

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