Interview Of Bhau by Bombay Times on 12 May 2003

Intv:-
For months,the NCP had no voice in city issues. Now there is hectic
activity. What are the issues you are foucusing on?

Bhau:-
I've been talking to all MLAs and we've agreed that MUMBAI needs
master plan for development. Institutions like Mharashtra Housing
and Area Development Authority (MHADA) and Mumbai Metropolitan Region
Development Authority (MMRDA) must focus on rehabilitation schemes
for slum-dwellers. There is so much land available across the city
for this. This must be a priority.


Intv:-
But there's already a scheme to rehouse slum-dwellers. What new
ideas are you propagating?

Bhau:-
Slum Redevelopment Authority schemes have not worked. They are not
financially viable for developers and some of them are in ligitation
because of Costal Regulation Zone (CRZ) issues.


Intv:-
Isn't the NCP going over board with insisting on the national anthem?

Bhau:-
Not at all. There is an attempt to create differences between people
over languages,cast and religion. Through the national anthem,we are
creating an atmosphere of nationalism.


Intv:-
But why impose it on people?

Bhau:-
That is what the media feels. On the other hand ,the respose of the
people is great. People are standing up in theaters and now we want
it to spread to colleges.


Intv:-
Hasn't the Telgi controversy damaged the NCP's image?

Bhau:-
It's had no impact on the party. It is clear that all allegations
against Deputy Cheif Minister Chhagan Bhujbal are wrong.


IntV:-
What is your party's response to the Shiv Sena's sons of the soil
campaign?

Bhau:-
Whenever we hear this slogan, it is clear that the civic or Assembly
elections are around the corner. It's a stunt. the rising population
is a big concern but since it is a Constitutional issue. By offering
free houses,the Sena has ensured that,in fact,more people come to
Mumbai.

Jai Hind Jai Rashtravadi

Bk