Mani Shankar Aiyar’s comments about Rajiv Gandhi’s academic failures have sparked controversy and debate, especially amplified by the BJP. While Aiyar questioned Gandhi’s qualifications as a Prime Minister, Congress leaders defended Gandhi’s significant political contributions and challenged Aiyar’s relevance.
Mani Shankar Aiyar, a veteran leader of the Congress party, has once again stirred controversy with his remarks regarding former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s academic failures at Cambridge and Imperial College, London. His comments have been amplified by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), leading Congress leaders to label Aiyar as “irrelevant and frustrated.
In a recently circulated clip from his interview, Aiyar asserted, “He is a pilot. He has failed twice. I was with him at Cambridge. He failed there… Then he went to Imperial College, London, and failed again.” He questioned how someone with such academic performance could become Prime Minister, although the context of his remarks was broader, highlighting shifts in perspectives regarding political figures over time.
Aiyar referenced the political journey of Indira Gandhi, who was previously dismissed as “gungi gudiya,” stating that Rajiv Gandhi, despite his initial academic setbacks, eventually proved himself as an effective Prime Minister. He expressed his belief in the potential for change in capable individuals when faced with challenges, mentioning Sonia Gandhi’s transition from being perceived as an outsider to a significant political player.
The short video clip has ignited reactions from the BJP, with Amit Malviya stating, “Rajiv Gandhi struggled academically… Many questioned how someone with his academic record could become the Prime Minister.” In response, Congress leaders countered Aiyar’s comments, emphasizing Rajiv Gandhi’s contributions, particularly in modernizing India’s economy, as highlighted by veteran Harish Rawat.
Congress MP Tarique Anwar commented on failure, asserting it is not uncommon and remarked on Rajiv Gandhi’s political accomplishments during his tenure.
When queried about mentoring Rahul Gandhi, Aiyar humorously responded, “I have been ready to mentor him for 20 years. He does not want it. He dislikes me. And who am I to impose my opinion on him?”
In summary, Mani Shankar Aiyar’s remarks on Rajiv Gandhi’s academic failures have provoked significant reaction from both the BJP and Congress, highlighting entrenched political tensions. Aiyar’s comments illustrate the changing perceptions of political figures over time, while party members defend Rajiv Gandhi’s achievements and contributions despite his initial setbacks. The dialogue surrounding Aiyar’s statements underscores the complexities of political legacies and the challenges faced by current leaders.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
