Vajpayee Govt directionless: Cong

Talking to newspersons, party spokesman Ajit Jogi noted that some cordiality had been struck between the Vajpayee Government and the party but its allies at the Centre continue to lash out at the Government 8220;on each and every issue virtually on a daily basis8221;.

8220;This does not augur well for the nation,8221; he contended. Stating that any coalition cobbled up on the basis of an anti-Congress plank cannot provide governance, Jogi pointed out that the national agenda of governance which brought these constituents together is followed more in the breach. 8220;There is therefore no convergence of views between the BJP and its allies on policies and programmes and the people are made victims of non-governance,8221; he claimed.

Maintaining that there were no differences in the party over its political line on atrocities on minorities in Gujarat, Jogi said he would, however, contact Sharad Pawar to ascertain the context in which he had favoured clamping of President8217;s rule in Gujarat.

8220;Both Pawar and Congress president Sonia Gandhi are concerned about the atrocities and want the Government to take firm action against the culprits,8221; he added.

Referring to the Cabinet decision to promulgate an ordinance for amending the Patent Act, Jogi said the Congress would welcome it provided it was the same that was passed by the Rajya Sabha. 8220;The Congress is keen that its amendment to protect the Indian system of medicine is incorporated,8221; he maintained.

On Vajpayee8217;s stay with Vice Admiral Harinder Singh on the New Year eve especially when he was the centre of controversy over the sacking of naval chief Vishnu Bhagwat, Jogi said the Prime Minister8217;s observance of discretion should not become a subject of controversy.