Shekhawat remains noncommital over Opium and other state issues

Jodhpur, Nov 7: Former Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat has opted to remain noncommital over Jaswant Singh ''Opium'' episode and other issues topical in Rajasthan politics, but reiterated his resolve to re-enter active politics soon. Talking to reporters at the Circuit House here last evening, Mr Shekhawat avoided comments on all state current affairs, including filing of FIR against Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Jaswant Singh and nine other BJP ''dissident'' leaders in ''Opium tasting'' controversy, activities of dissidents in the BJP Rajasthan unit and functioning of the Vasundhara Raje Government in the state.

Responding to a question about the Opium controversy, Mr Shekhawat, a three time Rajasthan Chief Minsiter, said ''..Who knows Mr Jaswant Singh offered Opium or he offered ''Kesar'' ?...Moreover, the matter is now sub judice and therefore, it is not appropriate for me to comment''. Mr Shekhawat's son-in-law and Industries Minister Narpat Singh Rajvi is included among ten leaders against whom the NDPS Court had ordered filing of FIR in this case.

Over the issue of reported dissidents ''mission'' in the BJP state unit, the former Vice President said he knew nothing about the this activity. Only those who are authorised to look into such affairs could throw some light over this issue.

''But I can say one thing that one can not satisfy all to 100 per cent extent'', Mr Shekhawat added.

In reply to a question over his assessment on the Vasundhara Raje Government's functioning and achievement's in the state, Mr Shekhawat said '' I am not authorised to make such assessments''.

However, Mr Shekhawat announced that he would soon enter active politics to work for the people of the country and make the BJP stronger. He said ''presently I am a bit unwell but soon I shall make myself active in political scenario to dovote myself for the people and the party''.

However, he refused to elaborate on his plans to do so. He said that strategy would be spelled out later at appropriate point of time.

UNI