Aiyar’s Stand on His Relationship with the Gandhis Veteran Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar addressed speculation about his stance on Rahul Gandhi. He stated that while their friendship
Veteran Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar addressed speculation about his stance on Rahul Gandhi. He stated that while their friendship remains intact, Rahul Gandhi views him as too old for guidance. “I take exception to this. I am not old,” he said, challenging the reason for his exclusion from party consultations.
When asked if he would mentor Rahul Gandhi, Aiyar revealed he had been willing for two decades. “He does not want it. He dislikes me. Who am I to impose my opinion on him?” he remarked. He also noted that he hopes people carry his statements to Gandhi, prompting him to take notice.
Aiyar’s comments on Rajiv Gandhi’s academic struggles have sparked controversy. A short video clip circulating on social media shows Aiyar saying, “He (Rajiv) failed twice, once at Cambridge and again at Imperial College, London.” BJP leaders seized on the remark, using it to question Rajiv Gandhi’s qualifications as Prime Minister.
Senior BJP leader Amit Malviya tweeted, “Rajiv Gandhi failed at Cambridge, where passing is relatively easy. He then failed at Imperial College. Many questioned how someone with his academic record could become PM.”
Congress leaders dismissed Aiyar’s comments, asserting that Rajiv Gandhi modernized India and played a crucial role in economic liberalization. Party veteran Harish Rawat labeled Aiyar a “frustrated individual” and credited Rajiv Gandhi with shaping India’s technological and economic advancements.
The widely shared video clip lacks full context. In his interview, Aiyar initially expressed skepticism about Rajiv Gandhi’s leadership due to his academic setbacks but later acknowledged his effectiveness as Prime Minister. He also highlighted how Indira Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi faced doubts early in their careers but eventually became strong political figures.
Aiyar recalled a 2004 conversation with Rahul Gandhi where he was assured of respect due to his friendship with Rajiv Gandhi. However, he lamented that Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi no longer meet him, while Sonia Gandhi’s health prevents regular interaction.
Aiyar’s remarks once again put Congress in an uncomfortable position. His candid statements provide fresh ammunition for BJP while also raising questions about Rahul Gandhi’s leadership approach within the party.
Tags: Mani Shankar Aiyar, Rahul Gandhi, Congress, BJP, Rajiv Gandhi, Political Controversy, Indian Politics
