Surjewala rules out joining BJP

Indian Youth Congress President Randeep Surjewala, who resigned from his post protesting the denial of party ticket to him from Hissar constituency in Haryana,has ruled out the possibility of him switching loyalties to BJP. "Talks that I may join BJP are all baseless. I and my family have served three

Indian Youth Congress President Randeep Surjewala, who resigned from his post protesting the denial of party ticket to him from Hissar Lok Sabha constituency in Haryana, on Thursday ruled out the possibility of him switching loyalties.

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"Talks that I may join BJP are all baseless. I and my family have served three generations of Gandhis and the Indian National Congress with our sweat and blood. Even to think of taking such a step cannot enter my imagination," Surjewala said.

Surjewala, who sent his resignation letter to Congress President Sonia Gandhi complaining about the denial of ticket from Hissar, said he had complete faith in her leadership and would abide by her decision.

Surjewala's name had been cleared earlier for Hissar seat but following pressure from two leaders of the state, who reportedly threatened to resign if he was given nomination, the seat was allotted to former Union Deputy Minister Jai Parkash, MLA from Barwala Assembly constituency. Parkash also reportedly threatened to resign from the party if he was denied ticket from Hissar.

Ironically, Surjewala said he would campaign for Parkash and other party candidates to ensure that Congress bags as many seats as possible in the coming polls.

"I am still a Congressman and a dedicated party worker. It is my responsibility to see that my party fares well in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections," Surjewala said.