E. SREEDHARAN could be the busiest 88-year-old in the country. On February 19, the “metro man” took many people by surprise by announcing that he had decided to join the BJP. Since then, his transformation from a technocrat to a politician has been quick and stark.
Sreedharan has been both blunt and sharp while attacking political opponents. He has also candidly expressed his aspiration to become the BJP’s chief minister candidate in the assembly elections in Kerala, due in May. Will he be able to change politics the way he changed public transport facilities across the country? In an exclusive interview, Sreedharan spoke to THE WEEK about his mission in politics. Excerpts:
Q In the past few days, you have transformed yourself from a technocrat to a true-blue politician. Was this change easy for you?
A I have entered politics, but that doesn’t mean I am a politician. I will continue to be a technocrat. I won’t play politics, but will work as a statesman to bring progress and prosperity to the state.
Q You had earlier refused to enter politics despite receiving many offers. What prompted you to take the plunge now?
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