Q: How do you look at Manmohan Singh as PM. Is he a ‘weak' PM as the opposition claims?
Tariq Anwar: The way he ran the government for 10 years is commendable. He started with a minority govt, still he managed it. Despite global recession, he managed to save Indian economy. He has done a lot for social and rural sector. And I think it's a big achievement.
Q: Do you think that a democratic country like India should have a PM who is not directly elected?
Tariq Anwar: I agree it's not correct. I believe he should have fought Lok Sabha elections and he could have won from any where. But it was his personal decision. There is no constitutional bar on this and we had many other PMs who were not directly elected. You have examples of Deve Gowda and Gujral. Even today, Nitish Kumar is CM of Bihar for last 10 years and he is a member of legislative council.
Q: But is it a good omen for democracy?
Tariq Anwar: No. I believe that at least Prime Minister and Chief Minister should be directly elected.
Q: Do you think Manmohan Singh can become PM for third time in a row? Congress had declared his name in 2009 but they have not said anything this time.
Tariq Anwar: Why not? The decision has to be taken by Congress as it's the largest party. So far as Manmohan Is concerned, he could very well become PM again.
