I'm backed by independent MLAs: Koda

Vijay Deo Jha Ranchi August 13, 2008

Chief Minister Madhu Koda on Tuesday ruled out that he was asked by the UPA leadership and Union Rail Minister Lalu Prasad to step down from the post of Chief Minister to make way for JMM chief Shibu Soren.

Koda also ruled out any possibility of his resignation from since he was backed by the independent MLAs in the State. "No leader of the UPA, including Lalu Prasad, asked me to step down. It is a matter of the collective decision of the UPA and till this date I am not aware of what Soren said on the withdrawal of support," he said.

"They (independents MLAs) are with me and we are running the Government collectively hence I do not find any reason to be panic," the Chief Minister said, on the sideline of the inaugural function of the multi-purpose building of the Department of Labour and Employment in Ranchi.

Appearing (very) confident about his continuation in the power despite the resolute stand of the JMM, Koda said he was backed by the Congress and the RJD.However, Koda preferred not to make any direct comment on Soren but declined that he was under pressure due to the fresh release of threat by the JMM.