Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams, who recently spent 195 weightless days in space, seems all set to deliver a weighty payload of dilemma to political circles.
Modi govt is reticent about the visit of Haren Pandya’s niece; Cong plans big party
AHMEDABAD: Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams, who recently spent 195 weightless days in space — a record for a woman — seems all set to deliver a weighty payload of dilemma to political circles in Gujarat.
Williams, whose father is a Gujarati, is being feted by the world. But Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi doesn’t seem too keen to applaud her. The apparent reason: Williams is the cousin of slain BJP leader Haren Pandya – an arch political rival of Modi.
Preparations are underway to felicitate Williams when she visits Gujarat in the first week of October. The party planners include state Congress leaders, the Vishwa Gujarati Samaj, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, and the rebel BJP camp. But nothing is forthcoming from the state government or the BJP except a customary press note welcoming her back to Earth.
Senior minister Ashok Bhatt refused to comment. “I am not aware of such plans,” Bhatt said. BJP state party president Purushottam Rupala said there were no plans yet to welcome Williams. He conceded they might organise something if specifically asked to do so.
However, the Congress and the BJP rebels are quick to point out Modi’s indifference. “It is shameful. Modi is not only ignoring Sunita but also insulting all Gujaratis,” leader of the Opposition Arjun Modhvadia said. “I called her father Deepak Pandya on Sunday to congratulate him. He told me that Sunita is very keen to visit Gujarat.” Modhvadia said Williams was the pride of Gujarat. “The whole country is proud of her, but her own state’s government is indifferent!” Talking about the party’s plans, Modhvadia said the Congress was planning a huge bash for her.
Haren Pandya’s father and Sunita’s uncle Vitthalbhai lambasted Modi for not recognising her accomplishments.
“Despite living in the US all her life, Sunita is every bit an Indian and a Gujarati,” he said. “We do not even need an endorsement from Modi. Suni is Gujarat’s pride and we are proud of her.”
Despite the recent Pota court order convicting 12 persons in the murder of his son, Vitthalbhai continues to accuse Narendra Modi of masterminding the murder. The court ruled the murder was an act of terrorism orchestrated to avenge Muslims who died during the 2002 riots.
Rebel BJP leaders have not missed this opportunity to lash out against Modi. “He is not celebrating the daughter of Gujarat’s achievements when the world is applauding her,” said Surat BJP MLA and rebel leader Dhirubhai Gajera.
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