Political Turmoil Surrounds Sonia Gandhis New Book: Congress Celebrates, BJP Critiques

New Delhi, November 11 (Daily Kiran) : The release of Sonia Gandhi‘s autobiography has ignited a fierce political debate in New Delhi. Congress leaders are praising the book as a testament to Gandhi’s life, struggles, and sacrifices. In contrast, BJP officials have raised questions about its content, claiming it attempts to obscure the party’s past actions.

Congress spokesperson Supriya Srinet defended the autobiography, describing it as a personal narrative that documents Gandhi’s experiences. She highlighted that the book’s cover features a photograph taken in 1966 by Rajiv Gandhi, when he sought Sonia’s hand from her father. The final image, taken in 2026 by Rehan, bookends their story with a visual timeline of their lives.

In response to BJP’s comments questioning the book’s title, Srinet remarked on the narrow-mindedness of such remarks, suggesting that they only increase public curiosity about the book. She expressed confidence that the more the BJP speaks out, the more interest the book will generate.

Congress spokesperson Charan Singh Sapra reacted to BJP’s claims of “whitewashing” in the autobiography. He advised BJP leaders to engage in self-reflection before criticizing others. Sapra challenged them to account for their actions over the past 12 years instead of deflecting attention onto Sonia Gandhi’s work.

BJP’s national spokesperson R.P. Singh accused Gandhi of using the book to cover up the party’s alleged misdeeds, particularly regarding the Emergency period. He claimed that she shifts blame onto deceased figures while avoiding accountability for her own actions.

Rajendra Pal Gautam, in charge of Congress in Uttar Pradesh, responded to BJP’s suggestion that the book should have been titled “Whitewashing.” He argued that the BJP’s discomfort with the book indicates its significance, as it chronicles a long history of struggle and sacrifice in leadership.

Madan Rathore, BJP’s state president in Alwar, expressed skepticism about the book, suggesting it may serve Sonia Gandhi’s interests. He noted that reports indicate she places full responsibility for the Emergency on Sanjay Gandhi.

Ajay Rai, a former Congress president in Varanasi, praised the autobiography, emphasizing the simplicity and honesty inherent in Congress’s culture. He noted that he discovered the book at a shop near the Assi Ghat in Kashi.

Prashant Kishor, founder of Jan Suraj and a legislator in Patna, refrained from commenting on the book, stating he hadn’t read it yet. He acknowledged the media’s role in shaping discussions around it.

YS Sharmila, president of the Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee, congratulated Sonia Gandhi on her book, expressing confidence that it was written with careful consideration. She dismissed BJP’s criticisms as expected and not worthy of serious attention.

Congress leader Hussain Dalwai from Mumbai highlighted Sonia Gandhi’s contributions to India after her marriage, particularly her commitment to the poor. He cited the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act as an example of her impactful initiatives, which expanded from Maharashtra to the entire country, significantly aiding the impoverished.

The political landscape surrounding Sonia Gandhi’s autobiography continues to evolve, with both praise and criticism shaping its reception.