NCP (SP) Responds to BJPs Criticism of Sonia Gandhis Book
NCP (SP) spokesperson Anish Gawande defends Sonia Gandhis autobiography, urging BJP to respond through their own publication.
Mumbai, November 12 (Daily Kiran) : Anish Gawande, the national spokesperson for the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) (Shiv Sena), has countered allegations made by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regarding Sonia Gandhi’s autobiography. He emphasized that the best way to respond to a book is with another book. Gawande addressed speculation regarding the potential merger of the NCP, clarifying that since Ajit Pawar’s passing, there have been no discussions on the matter.
Gawande shared his perspective on Sonia Gandhi’s narrative, stating, “In politics, you meet people and understand their struggles. I’ve read part of the book, and I found it moving, especially a moment where a father expressed his pain to Sonia Gandhi after the Godhra riots, bringing tears to her eyes.” He noted that it is natural to become emotional when faced with the suffering of others.
While discussing the controversies surrounding historical events, Gawande maintained that differences of opinion regarding decisions made by Indira Gandhi or the ideologies that emerged post-Babri Masjid demolition are valid. However, he asserted that Sonia Gandhi has the right to share her story.
On BJP’s criticisms of the autobiography, Gawande stated, “If the BJP believes there are inaccuracies in the book, they should write their own. They first tried to prevent its publication and are now making accusations. If they have objections, they should express them through another book.”
He also commented on the recent controversy involving Kareena Kapoor’s pendant, dismissing it as nonsensical. Gawande remarked on India’s secular nature, recalling historical celebrations that included diverse communities. “We have always lived together—Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians. Such disputes do not interest me, and they do not benefit anyone,” he added.
In light of a recent Bombay High Court ruling that banned Chhath Puja celebrations at Girgaum Chowpatty, Gawande stressed the importance of respecting this significant festival in Mumbai. He argued that Chhath Puja should not become a subject of controversy based on linguistic or regional differences.
Gawande also addressed comments from Sunetra Pawar, expressing hope that when Praful Patel met with the Chief Minister, he advocated for Sunetra Pawar to be appointed to the finance ministry. He reiterated that discussions about a merger have not taken place and that anyone wishing to join the NCP is welcome, as previously stated by Sharad Pawar.
In response to Shiv Sena leader Anand Dubey’s remarks, Gawande noted that Sunetra Pawar hinted at forthcoming developments, suggesting that discussions will occur when the time is right. He acknowledged that Sharad Pawar is currently undergoing routine health checks and expressed hope for his swift recovery.
