Working with Rahul Gandhi was a waste of time: Himanta Biswa Sarma

Assam Chief minister Tarun Gogoi's former blue-eyed boy Himanta Biswa Sarma is now Assam BJP's election convenor. He tells Prabin Kalita he has asked for nothing from the party. Excerpts:

You were seen as Tarun Gogoi's successor...
That is a closed chapter. I've joined BJP. Who succeeds Gogoi is a non-issue for me.

What are BJP's prospects?
BJP is sweeping. We'll get over 70 seats, no question of a hung assembly. The chief minister is losing in his own constituency, take it from me.

What role do you see for yourself if BJP wins?
When I joined BJP, I never asked for a post. I have campaigned for the party, given 100 per cent without seeking anything in return. Even if the party asks me to join the ministry, I will think twice.

Your prospects in your constituency Jalukbari?
Last time I won with the state's highest margin. This time too I'll win with a historic margin. I'll break my record.

Your three key contributions?
I've committed, stood by people. Jalukbari is the most developed constituency.

The lowest point in your political career?
When Rahul bulldozed 55 Congress MLAs who voted against Gogoi, it was a trial of strength the leadership sought. After we got absolute majority, Rahul organised a delegation and sent it to Sonia Gandhi. Those were the worst days.

What is your plan?
Amit Shahji asked me to work for the party, get the alliance sewn up. I believe I did to his satisfaction. After April 11, the party will unveil its plans for me.

Do you regret your stint in the Congress?
Working with Rahul was a waste of time. I should have joined BJP much earlier.

Talk about your association with PM Modi.
His knowledge about Assam is immense. He asked us not to allow anyone from outside the state to sit on the dais. He kept reminding us not to make mistakes or else we'll never revive. His knowledge and acumen have impressed me.

Your name has cropped up in the Saradha scam...
The court has given me a clean chit. I am now just a witness like 10,000 others.