Mani Shankar Aiyar’s Controversial Remarks on Rajiv Gandhi’s Legacy

Mani Shankar Aiyar’s comments on Rajiv Gandhi’s academic failures have sparked controversy, provoking responses from both Congress and BJP. While Aiyar criticized Rajiv’s academic record, he eventually recognized his effective leadership. Congress leaders defended Rajiv Gandhi, asserting that failures do not negate political contributions and highlighting the complexities of family legacy in political viability.

Mani Shankar Aiyar, a seasoned Congress leader, has once again caused controversy with his remarks regarding former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s academic history at Cambridge and Imperial College. Aiyar’s statement, amplified by the ruling BJP, has prompted Congress leaders to label him as “irrelevant and frustrated,” with some suggesting he acts as a “sleeper cell of BJP.” In a particular interview clip, Aiyar stated, “He is a pilot. He has failed twice. I was with him at Cambridge. He failed there… failing in Cambridge is very difficult.”

Aiyar’s comments arose in answer to a question concerning Rahul Gandhi’s potential to lead the Congress Party effectively. He referenced former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, mentioning her initial public perception as “gungi gudiya” or “a mute doll,” before she developed into a formidable political figure. While discussing Rajiv Gandhi’s academic failures, Aiyar later acknowledged his effectiveness as a Prime Minister, stating, “But I now say he was an excellent Prime Minister.”

Furthermore, Aiyar expressed uncertainty about Rahul Gandhi’s operational methods within the party, yet emphasized the family’s historical challenges, indicating that they may reveal hidden capabilities in tough situations. Meanwhile, senior BJP leader Amit Malviya criticized Rajiv Gandhi’s academic achievements, questioning how someone with his record could lead the nation.

In response to Aiyar’s remarks, Congress members vocally defended Rajiv Gandhi. Harish Rawat characterized Aiyar as a “frustrated individual,” affirming Rajiv Gandhi’s significant contributions to modernizing India’s economy, which he contended were undermined by factionalism within the party. Tarique Anwar also supported Rajiv Gandhi’s legacy, arguing that failures are commonplace and do not define a leader’s political effectiveness. Lastly, Aiyar humorously remarked that he has offered mentorship to Rahul Gandhi for years, but it has not been welcomed.

Mani Shankar Aiyar’s remarks on Rajiv Gandhi’s academic failures have reignited tensions between Congress and BJP, amplifying political discourse around leadership capabilities within the Gandhi family. While Aiyar acknowledged Rajiv Gandhi’s contributions as Prime Minister, Congress members responded by defending his legacy, arguing that failures do not detract from political success. The situation underscores the intricate dynamics within Indian politics, particularly regarding hereditary leadership and historical performance.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com