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Khalap keeps options open

Union Law Minister Ramakant Khalap seems to be keeping his options open. So much so that he is reluctant to say that the Bharatiya Janata Party is 'communal'.

Grilled about his silence on the saffron brigade, Khalap said, ''Why do you want to rake up a controversy? I would not like to call anyone names.''

Asked if he was trying to keep his options open, the minister said, "The ifs and buts have to wait till March 2... However, my 25-year career gives enough proof that there will not be any situation where my integrity will be questioned."

Despite the tall talk, the fact remains that his Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party had forged ties with the BJP in the last assembly poll four years ago. In fact, he was trying a similar experiment this time, but could not succeed due to the strong opposition from local BJP cadres.

Though his pre-election alliance has failed, sources close to Khalap reveal that the national BJP leadership has assured him of a Cabinet berth if elected. BJP sources said the alliance could not be worked out as Khalap refused to step down as minister.

Asked if this was true, he said, "I am with the UF and will always remain with the combine.''

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