K Jana Krishnamurthy, who was eased out of the Cabinet, said on Thursday that he never insisted on retaining the law ministry.

However, he did not say why he did not accept Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's offer of some other portfolio.

"I never demanded it, nor did the prime minister ask me whether I insist on law. The prime minister was gracious enough to offer me one or two other ministries.

"I declined it, but not because I wanted to continue in law. I did not accept the prime minister's offer for reasons best known to him and me. The reasons are the same that made me decline the prime minister's invitation to join the Cabinet last June-end," he said.

Vajpayee had said on Wednesday that Krishnamurthy had resigned because he wanted to retain law ministry.

"I am not in anyway hurt and I continue to enjoy the trust and confidence of the prime minister," Krishnamurthy said.

Asked whether he wanted to step down on account of his indifferent health, he said, "Much was made of my health. I had some health problem, as every other human being, but that did not come in the way of my ministerial work. I have no regrets and I am happy to have enjoyed confidence and affection of one and all."

Asked whether he wanted to write a book, the former BJP president said, "I intend writing down my experience in public life. I have definite views on Hindutva, Ayodhya and long interaction with the Sangh Parivar organisations.

"I will put down in paper the development of politics in general and I have certain definite views, which I will be putting down, but not with the idea of publishing."