In her first interview after she resigned as the Rajasthan Leader of the Opposition, former chief minister Vasundhara Raje speaks to Apurva about the future of the BJP in Rajasthan.

These are busy days, by-elections in two constituencies and now the local body elections on November 23.

I have so much work to do despite technically not having a job or post to be precise. There is always some party business and well-wishers never stop streaming in.

No post, but you will stay in Rajasthan?

I am first and foremost a member of the BJP and will continue to be one. After the elections last year, I made a promise to the people of Rajasthan that I will continue to work in this state for their well-being and that is what I plan to do.

How is the state BJP unit functioning now, without a Leader of the Opposition, despite holding 79 seats in the Assembly?

I am not that involved in the running of the state unit for now.

What about the next Leader of Opposition?

The choice of a new Leader of the Opposition is one for which the central leadership also has to be considered. I believe these decisions will be taken after the conclusion of these local body elections.

Many insist that the next Leader of Opposition might possibly be one of your supporters.  

There are no personalities in the BJP, only a dedicated work force. There is still time to choose a new Leader of Opposition and I am not involved in that decision-making process.

... contd.