BJP seeks to downplay Kushwaha affair

Bajpai, however, evaded queries on who should be held responsible for endorsing Kushwaha`s induction, after former BJP state president Surya Pratap Shahi and senior leader Vinay Katiyar denied any role in it. Shahi had denied on Monday any role in bringing Kushwaha into the partyfold during the Assembly elections. Kushwaha`s induction into the BJP has been put on hold pending an inquiry into the charges against him.

Spelling out his priorities, Bajpai said his aim was to further strengthen the party organisation for which he would hold direct dialogue with workers and motivate them to work towards it. To a question, Bajpai said his party would function as a vigilant opposition and highlight the wrongdoings of the government.