Jaswant’s book banned in Gujarat for Sardar remarks

In a development that could be a blow to senior BJP leader Jaswant Singh, the Gujarat government has issued an order banning
the circulation of his book. Singh was expelled from the BJP on Wednesday morning during party's Chintan Baithak being held in Shimla.

Singh, an MP from Darjeeling, was expelled from the party reportedly for praising Mohammad Ali Jinnah in his latest book titled 'Jinnah-India, Partition, Independence'. Singh was under fire for a couple of days from own party leaders for his remarks on Jinnah.

The Gujarat government, ruled by the BJP, on Wednesday night decided to ban the circulation of the book as it reportedly contains some remarks against Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. According to a release issued by the government, the book will not be distributed or published in any form in the state. 

"Doubts and questions have been raised over the role and patriotism of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel with respect to partition of the country. The book contains contradictory writings about the facts of history that can spoil the image of the son (Sardar Patel) of the soil of Gujarat and architect of the unity of India," the release said.  "The state government, therefore, has put a ban on the book with immediate effect," it added.

However, the decision to ban the book has sent shockwaves within the BJP circles in the state, especially when chief minister Narendra Modi is in Shimla to attend the Chintan Baithak. It is believed that the decision was taken by the state government in consultation with senior party leaders.

Government spokesperson  Jaynarayan Vyas was not available for comment.