Farmers Movement Archive

BJP govt ignoring role of Indira Gandhi in 1971 War: Rahul

Dehradun: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday accused the BJP government of ignoring the contribution of his grandmother and former PM Indira Gandhi in securing victory against Pakistan in the 1971 war, as India celebrates the 50th anniversary of the victory as Vijay Diwas. Launching Congress’s poll campaign from the Parade ground in Uttarakhand, he said, "Today, a function was held in Delhi to mark 50 years of India's victory in the 1971 war against Pakistan. There was no mention of Indira Gandhi. The contribution of the woman who took 32 bullets for the country was completely sidelined as this government is afraid of the truth. This reflects their fear." Addressing a huge gathering, he tried to strike an emotional note with them, saying he shared a "close bond" with the state. “Like the sons of Uttarakhand who gave the supreme sacrifice, my father and grandmother also laid down their lives for the country. I understand and share the pain of their kin. This is my connection with the people of the state," he said. His rally in Doon was named "Vijay Samman rally", and he honoured ex-servicemen who had fought on behalf of the country in the 1971 war. He also met family members of those who died in the battlefield. He met kin of Major Chitresh Bisht from Dehradun, who sacrificed his life while defusing an improvised explosive device. The swastina mantra, a peace chant, was recited by purohits and a two-minute silence was observed in memory of defence personnel, including the country's first chief of defence staff General Bipin Rawat. A huge cut out of General Rawat was put on the Parade ground. Stressing on the importance of staying united, Rahul said, "Pakistan was defeated within 13 days, and it was possible only because of the unity shown by the entire country. It was a win for each and every individual of the country. This shows that no one can defeat us if we remain united.” The BJP government was focused on "dividing the nation" and "making a brother fight against another brother," said Rahul, and accused the ruling government of "wasting financial resources by buying planes and tanks in a bid to win wars." He said unity was the answer to many of the country's problems. Gandhi also touched upon the local problems, saying unemployment and inflation were among top issues faced by people of the hill state. “While international rates of petrol and diesel are falling, India has a very high rate of tax on petrol. When you pay steep prices for petrol, the money goes into the pocket of a handful of industrialists, who are doing marketing for PM Modi,” he said. Gandhi also accused the government of "ruining" the business of job providers such as small industries and traders. Talking about farmers' protests, he said, "It is unfortunate that the BJP government is unwilling to give compensation to farmers who died during the protest. While the PM apologised for farm laws, the government did not maintain data of those who died. I presented a list of 400 farmers of Punjab and 70 from Haryana in Parliament.”

The Times of India

2021-12-17

Dehradun