Lucknow, February 4: Former BSP leader Swami Prasad Maurya, who has joined the BJP, said today that "for Mayawati (BSP chief), money is everything".

Speaking at the India TV conclave

"Chunav Manch" here, Maurya said: "Till Kanshi Ram (BSP founder) was alive, money was least important. But after the last 2012 UP assembly polls, this disease (craze for money) has become widespread."

Maurya, fielded by BJP from Padrauna, said:

"Mayawati has compromised on Dr Ambedkar's ideology and principles. Politics should be based on ideology, but when a party compromises with principles, it is time for rethink. That's why I quit BSP."

Asked why he didn't join any other political party, Maurya replied:

"Congress, Samajwadi Party were in my mind. I even thought of floating a new party. But Congress is neck deep in corruption. The scene is no different in SP."

The former BSP leader denied reports that he quit the party because Mayawati denied a ticket to him and his family members.

"No party can deny a ticket to me. I joined the BJP because I was inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He is the first PM who deliver what he promises."

Maurya denied media reports that he threatened to quit BJP if tickets were not given to him and his son.

"I am ready to serve the BJP without expecting anything in return. I will continue to serve the party as a worker for next 50 years."

Hastakshep