'Maya neck-deep in corruption, no blot on Narendra Modi'

Lucknow: Former BSP leader Swami Prasad Maurya is often (dis)credited for sparking off the revolt in Mayawati's camp ahead of the fast approaching UP assembly elections. Now with the BJP, the former BSP national general secretary spoke to Pankaj Shah about his existing status and future political plans.
Where do you find yourself in the BJP?
I have yet to find a place in BJP's core setup.Soon after leaving BSP, I started preparing for my rally. Now that it is over, I will start adjusting in the party's organisational set up, take responsibility and work as per directions of the party high command.
It is being said a BJP leader or functionary has to be very much in sync with RSS to survive in the party. Have you been able to establish that connect?
Not yet. I will do it soon. Now that I have joined the BJP I will try to meet leaders of frontal organisations like RSS, VHP, etc. There are multiple layers in BJP, unlike BSP which has just one platform.
You had been vocal and aggressive in accusing the BJP of being a communal party. Has that perception changed?
Yes, that perception has changed. And that is just because of the working style of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. There is no room for hatred for any community under his leadership. There is a change in people's perception about a political setup.
Why did you drop plan of forming a separate party after leaving BSP?
I did not have much time. It would have been arrogance had I done so. Moreover, I would not have been able to provide a good alternative to my supporters who rallied behind me in my bad days.
What difference do you see between BJP and BSP?
The biggest difference is of corruption. Mayawati is neck-deep in corruption while there is not a single blot on Narendra Modi. Mayawati is fooling people in the name of Ambedkar and Kanshiram, while Modi is working for the dignity of Dalit icons.
Do you think Dalits will stand solidly with BSP, especially after recent incidents of atrocities on the community?
The feeling that Mayawati has diverted from the Dalit mission is gaining ground strongly. She is no more a representative of Dalits and their sentiments. In fact, she has auctioned Ambedkar and Kanshiram legacy for the sake of money. Her mission now is "Jiski jitni thaili bhaari...uski utni bhagidaari...'' Her priority are those who are rich and can purchase ticket. Therefore, the poor and Dalits are gradually getting distanced from the party and its policies. In contrast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is getting memorials in the name of Ambedkar constructed. It is a mark of respect for not only Ambedkar but also of his supporters and disciples. Modiji also got a 'Dhamma Yatra' organised to propagate Buddhism. This is indicative of Modi being in favour of 'Samtamoolak Samaj' (equality within society).
You have been invited to the national executive committee of BJP in Kozikhode. How big is the occasion for you?
It is a big occasion for me since I am still new to the party. I am thankful to my party leadership.
You were denied a ticket by BSP chief Mayawati. Do you see getting one from the BJP?
My political fate now rests with the national leadership of BJP. That include my chances of contesting assembly election.
What about your son and daughter?
Naturally, they are now part of BJP family. They will do as told by BJP's national leadership.