There is a lot of speculation in the media on the relations between the RSS and BJP, that the RSS is withdrawing from the affairs of the party, etc. Could you clarify?

Many of the BJP office-bearers, including me, are volunteers of the RSS. The RSS does not dictate to the BJP. But we do consult them on matters of national importance. It is a nationalist organisation and the world’s largest cultural organisation. When the party required some wholetimers with experience, I requested them for some people. They met my request.

So that practice will continue? You will request them for workers in the future also?

Yes, if need be. That practice will continue.

That means, the RSS-BJP relations will continue as they have always been.

It is not that the RSS wants to be in the BJP. They send people because we demand it.

As party president, can you pinpoint some programmes which you think are distinctively your initiative?

As it told you, individuals are not important. But I have personal interest in the programme “Bhajpa har booth pe” and reserving 33 per cent posts for women.

The media, particularly the English one, has been quite harsh towards you. Are you hurt?

I am hurt at times, but that is not important. Everyone has a right to say, everyone is welcome to say that.

Your son’s appointment as the youth wing president in UP got you a lot of bad press. Do you think it could have been avoided?

... contd.