Janaki Ballabh Patnaik, a legendary politician who has been Governor of Assam since 2009. A leader of the Indian National Congress, he was Chief Minister of Odisha from 1980 to 1989 and again from 1995 to 1999, holding that post for the longest time on record before Naveen Patnaik. After having completed his tenure as Assam Governor, he might jump into active state politics again, as he shared with Brahmi Priya Samantray of Ashapradeepnews.com. Excerpts.

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Q.1.   Are you planning to enter into active politics now, as your term being the Governor of Assam came to an end?

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Ans.      Now seeking rest and devoting most of the time for literature, trying to properly arrange my home library. As the Governor of Assam I was totally out of politics, but now trying to directly involve with politics.

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Q.2.   Despite Odisha Congress witnessed a change in rein repeatedly over the years the party had to face a massive defeat in both the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections. What are the factors responsible?

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Ans.      Absence of strong leadership and improper management within the party has led to the failure.

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Q.3.   Naveen Patnaik Government has been marred by many scandals, but still emerges as the most popular Chief Minister in the country. What you have to say?

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Ans.      Without strong opposition the scandals made by the ruling BJD have not been seriously come to the fore. So they have magically secured their place.

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Q.4.   You are a legendary diplomat. What is your view about the current political scenario in Odisha?

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Ans.      Now a strong opposition party is needed in Odisha Politics. Congress will take as a strong opposition in future.

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Q.5.   Despite Odisha having rich natural resources it remains the second poorest among all other states in the country. Then What is your view about the state economy?

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Ans.      Odisha still remains poorer due to mismanagement and imprudent administration.

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Q.6.   You have earlier said that eligible persons should be brought back within the Congress party. To whom do you specifically refer to?

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Ans.      Yes, eligible persons should come to Congress, but I don’t want to name any particular person for that right now.

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Q.7.   You have translated Bhagbat Gita. Do the politicians need to imbibe some moral lessons from the epic Gita in their political administration, according to you?

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Ans. I have translated Srimad Bhagabat Gita, which contains 18,000 shlokas. It is necessary for the present stage politicians to inherit morals by following Gita.