SHILLONG: DD Lapang, who is now the chief advisor to the government, has termed himself as the “big uncle” of the coalition but remained tightlipped about joining the NPP.
Speaking to the media on Friday, a day after he was named the chief advisor, Lapang said he wanted a free hand to serve the state and its people.
He reiterated that the reason for his quitting the Congress was the party’s attitude towards veteran leaders and not pecuniary gains.
“I don’t agree with this idea of setting aside old leaders as there are cases where a man of 95 years can run as chief minister,” he said and stressed that the phasing out of senior leaders was not acceptable to him.
According to Lapang, senior leaders like Oscar Fernandes, Sushil Kumar Shinde and Ambika Soni have been sidelined.
“I want to be a man to serve the people. I do not want to be a backbencher and so I decided to resign,” Lapang said and added that he did his best for the party but reached a point where his freedom was restricted. He ruled out chances of burying the hatchet with the Congress.
He repeated his criticisms of AICC president Rahul Gandhi saying he lacked diplomacy and humility and was not fit to be a prime ministerial candidate. He was certain that the Congress could not be revived under Rahul’s leadership.
Lashing out at the Gandhi scion, Lapang said he would lose his supporters owing to his bad language.
However, he praised Sonia Gandhi for all the support. “I will meet Sonia Gandhi when the dust settles,” Lapang said.
When asked about the future of BJP in next year’s polls, he said in the North East, BJP looks promising.
Reacting to a query about speculations that he would float a party, Lapang said, “Political party is just a dream in wilderness.”
The veteran leader maintained that he would welcome any group, agency or association if his hands are strengthened and he is allowed to serve the people. “My philosophy is not to burn their house because of differences and so I left the Congress.”
After Lapang was named the chief advisor on Thursday, Congress spokesperson Zenith Sangma had said the leader left the party for money and other benefits.
Ex-CM slams Zenith
Reacting to this, Lapang said the remark was “irresponsible” and “the party leaders who made the statement should see my track record”.
Lapang is a five-time chief minister and three-time deputy chief minister. He was elected to the Assembly 10 times.
“I challenge if they can charge me with anything. I am here for service and not money,” said the leader whose anger was palpable.
The chief advisor also denied accusations that he was involved in the toppling game. “I am the eldest and if my younger brother wanted something I gave them willingly,” he said hinting at Mukul Sangma taking charge of the mantle from him in 2010.