The BJP had to rewrite its pre-poll pact with the Ajsu to accommodate sitting MLA Madhavlal Singh, one of the most prominent faces from Gomia constituency and undoubtedly a stronger candidate than any other NDA leader.

The BJP had handed over Gomia 'in exchange' for Hatia, which is a sitting seat of the Ajsu, succumbing to what they called a coalition compulsion.

But the 62-year-old warhorse, who had represented the seat in 1985, 1990 and 2000 as an Independent and in 2009 as a Congress candidate before joining the BJP last month, forced the party high command to reconsider its decision.

With just two days to go to the polls, former transport minister Singh is banking on his clean image, apart from the NaMo wave, to reaffirm his electoral appeal. Shashank Shekhar spoke to Singh on what made him one of the undisputed leaders of Gomia and his future plans, if he wins again.

Excerpts:

TT: You are considered as an honest politician, who is popular both among common people and Maoists

Singh: Even Maoists are our close relatives, who probably were misguided and strayed away from mainstream probably owing to their personal problems or circumstances. They should be brought back to mainstream.

Maoists respect honesty people and mostly target corrupt officials and politicians. If corruption is eradicated, Maoist menace will also end. Growth and jobs are key weapons to fight extremism.

In 2009, you had won as a Congress candidate but joined the BJP this time. So, you are among those turncoats who switch allegiance for selfish gains?

Look, I was not feeling comfortable in the Congress with scams, one after another, being coming out. But Narendra Modi, through his conducts, reinstated people's faith in honest politicians.

What do you think what helped you win from this seat, where 70 per cent population are either Mahtos, OBCs or Muslims?

I do not believe in caste. I sincerely believe in helping people in times of their pain and share their sorrows like my own family. If one is suffering from any disease, whoever he maybe, Madhavlal Singh will stand by him. This is my strength and this is the reason people, irrespective of their caste and creed, support me.

I know my zone and I know my people. This is my success mantra.

Whom do you consider to be your main rival?

I think this time, I will have a close fight with JMM's Yogendra Mahto as others are lagging far behind.