Is Narendra Modi sorry for 2002?

Chief Minister Narendra Modi disn’t spell out any apology for the 2002 riots, during his speech. But he gave indication that he wants this history to be buried. Addressing people before starting his fast on Saturday, Modi asked to forget the past and be part of the development spree. His choice of words and tone of speech were aimed at conveying a sense of regret, especially to the Muslim community.

Modi was clearly making an effort to welcome Muslims who were the main targets of the riots in 2002. Opposition parties and social workers have repeatedly sought an apology from the chief minister for the riots, something which he has avoided doing till date.

Now, after the Supreme Court’s recent verdict which didn’t indict him but left it to the local magistrate to decide the matter, Modi doesn’t seem inclined to accept any blame for the bloodletting in 2002.    

Most of the leaders attending Modi's fast, including LK Advani, Arun Jaitely, and Punjab chief minister Parkash Singh Badal and representatives of Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa, struck the same tune and requested people to be part of the state's development.

In a dramatic gesture, Modi spread his arms towards the end of his speech and said: "Six crore Gujaratis are my family. I want to sacrifice myself for them."

Some other parts of his speech also appeared to indicate a change of mind. "Gujarat has suffered a lot. My heart pains even today as it was during the riots for the families who had suffered. I am dedicated to the people of Gujarat. Their pain is mine and suffering is mine," he said.

He also sought the blessings of God for himself. "Give me strength so that I can dedicate my life for harmony and peace in Gujarat. There should not be any feeling of hatred, vengeance and bitterness or bad thoughts. We want to take this healthy atmosphere forward," Modi said.

His words during his speech seemed to indicate that Modi wants people to forget the past and become a part of the future. He opened his heart to all by inviting all members of the society. Earlier, when media had sought his views on an apology for the riots, he just said: ''Any such incidents (riots) don't befit any civil society.''