Syed Sibtey Razi: Parting shot

Ranchi, July 21: Outgoing Governor Syed Sibtey Razi today side-stepped the huge criticism he faced for keeping the House under suspended animation even though no political party came forward to form an alternative government in the past six months.

He said the decision to extend President’s rule while keeping the state Assembly under suspended animation was taken by Parliament.

“For six months I waited. But nobody came forward to stake claim to form a government. I don’t see any difference whether the House is dissolved or kept under suspended animation,” he told The Telegraph in an exclusive interview today.

“The Constitution and the Supreme Court say the House has to be kept under suspension and the governor has to explore the possibility of forming an alternative government. So, it is wrong to criticise me,” Razi argued.

“Moreover, there was no opportunity for forming an alternative government after Union home minister P. Chidambaram made it clear that he would ask the Election Commission to conduct polls in Jharkhand after the monsoon. So, the chapter is closed,” he added.

Razi said he did not have any regrets for his premature transfer to Assam. “It has not happened with me only. Several other governors, including B.L. Joshi and Rameshwar Thakur, too, were shifted,” he said.

Razi refused to speak about some his “ugly” experiences in Jharkhand or the corruption charges levelled against him by the BJP. “I still hold the position of governor. So, I cannot tell you the facts,” he admitted candidly.

However, he turned nostalgic when asked about his happiest memories.

“When I took charge here, the country was reeling under the disastrous impact of Tsunami. I was really overwhelmed by the response of the common people to my appeal for donation to the relief fund,” he recalled.

Razi said he had begun the “cleansing process” by ordering action against a huge number of officials.

“I hope the process will continue. Every government should punish wrong doers and reward honest officials,” he said.