1984 issue being raked up for political gains; maligning of Congress unacceptable to me: Kamal Nath

After quitting as Congress incharge for the upcoming Assembly elections in Punjab assigned to him three days ago, Senior Congress leader Kamal Nath on Thursday said that the issue was being raked up for political gains, and he was deeply hurt by it.

Kamal Nath's step came as the Akali Dal, BJP and AAP stepped up attacks on him and the Congress over his alleged role in the anti-Sikh riots in 1984 which followed the assassination of Indira Gandhi.

Describing his appointment as 'sprinkling of salt on wounds' of Sikhs, the three parties were set to pursue the issue in the run up to the Assembly polls slated next year.

"Certain elements are raking up issue of my so called involvement in 1984 riots now for political gains. I have been hurt by the developments," said Kamal Nath.

Stating that an unnecessary controversy has been created, he added, "Till 2005, not a single public statement complaint or FIR was ever made against me. The Nanavati Commission, where my name was mentioned also absolved me."

"None of BJP, Akali Dal MPs including Sukhbir Singh Badal mentioned my name, when the Commission report was discussed in Parliament. The canard is therefore a cheap political ploy to gain traction ahead of elections," Nath said.

"I have been General secretary in-charge of Delhi in the past. Nobody raked it up then. Maligning of Congress party is unacceptable to me. I want party to focus on elections and highlight misdeeds of Akali BJP combine. I didn't want distraction from real issues.Therefore requested Congress President to relieve me," he said.

"Kamal Nath has tendered his resignation from the responsibilities assigned to him in AICC. On his request, Congress president Sonia Gandhi has accepted his resignation," Randeep​ Surjewala said.