Rahul Gandhi unites BJP, Pakistan

NEW DELHI: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi’s remarks crediting the Nehru-Gandhi family with India’s independence and the creation of Bangladesh has fuelled an angry response from the opposition.

Speaking at an election rally in Saharanpur, Gandhi had said “once the Gandhi family decides on something, it makes sure that is accomplished — whether it is throwing out the British, breaking up Pakistan or taking India into the 21st century.”

The comments, too soon after remarks on the Babri demolition, appear to have embarrassed the government and kicked off a war of words between the Congress and the opposition.

The BJP was quick to dub him “dynastic” while the CPI urged him to concentrate on issues pertaining to UP.

“If you are taking credit for Bangladesh, then you should also take the blame for partitioning India. You should know this. Everyone from Bose to Savarkar fought for freedom, but to give credit to one family shows dynastic politics,” said BJP spokesman Prakash Jawadekar.

There was no official reaction from the government, though, in private, functionaries professed that Rahul “should have been more circumspect while commenting on the issue”.