SONIA GANDHI MEMOIR CONTROVERSY
Sonia Gandhi questioned Rajiv on Shah Bano case, he said he was trying to deal with it fairly
In her new memoir, Sonia Gandhi recalls questioning Rajiv Gandhi over his handling of the Shah Bano case and his attempt to balance religious rights with gender justice. She also revisits the Ayodhya dispute, alleging that the BJP-RSS's actions deepened communal tensions and eventually led to the Babri Masjid's demolition.
‘Should've called it Whitewashing, not Belonging’: BJP slams Sonia Gandhi's memoir
The BJP has criticised Congress leader Sonia Gandhi's memoir Belonging: A Journey of Love, with party spokesperson CR Kesavan saying it should have been titled 'Whitewashing, not Belonging'. Kesavan accused the book of sugar-coating the Nehru-Gandhi family's past, while BJP leader HS Phoolka alleged that Gandhi's account of the Army's deployment after Indira Gandhi's assassination in 1984 contradicts official records and gives Rajiv Gandhi a clean chit.
‘Made it a point to speak frankly to each other’: Sonia Gandhi on her equation with Manmohan Singh
Congress leader Sonia Gandhi's memoir, Belonging: A Journey of Love, offers insights into her political journey and relationships with key figures. She recalls her equation with former PM Manmohan Singh, Pranab Mukherjee's reported suggestion that he could become PM, Rahul Gandhi's elevation as Congress president, her limited interactions with PM Narendra Modi and the circumstances surrounding Maneka Gandhi's departure from the family home.
"Anna Hazare's anti-corruption movement was covertly supported by BJP, RSS" to dislodge UPA: Sonia Gandhi's memoir
Sonia Gandhi, in her memoir, indicates that the 'India Against Corruption' movement received covert support from the BJP and RSS. The movement created significant public pressure, compelling the UPA government to pass the Lokpal Act in 2014. Although the legislation aimed to combat corruption, it became ineffective following the BJP's rise to power. Gandhi reflects on Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's challenges during this tumultuous period.
'Rahul, joy to us all, but especially his grandmother': Sonia recalls son's chubby childhood in memoir
Sonia Gandhi shares her recollections of her son Rahul's early years and his relationship with Indira Gandhi. She describes her initial feelings of exclusion during the planning of Rahul's naamkaran ceremony and how she addressed them. Sonia recalls Indira's affectionate yet sometimes frustrating comparisons of Rahul to veteran leader Kamalapati Tripathi. Despite tensions, Sonia learned to communicate effectively with Indira, often through brief notes.
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Sonia Gandhi has not seen 'horrific' photo of Rajiv's remains taken after assassination: Book
In her tell-all memoir, "Belonging: A Journey of Love", former Congress president Sonia Gandhi says her son Rahul Gandhi and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra deliberately kept the image from her, instructing their staff not to hand her any newspaper or magazine without vetting it.
Indira had tears in eyes while watching Operation Blue Star aftermath footage: Sonia Gandhi
Sonia Gandhi shares insights from her memoir on her mother-in-law Indira Gandhi's feelings during Operation Blue Star. Indira was deeply affected by the violence and loss of life resulting from the siege at the Golden Temple. Despite her attempts to negotiate, Indira ordered military action when faced with an impending declaration of Khalistan. The operation resulted in considerable destruction and angered the Sikh community, leading to significant challenges for Indira.
BJP's Pradeep Bhandari revives Bofors row over Sonia Gandhi's memoir, questions Rajiv Gandhi-Quattrocchi links
Speaking to in Delhi, Bhandari said the release of the memoir had brought renewed attention to the Bofors scandal and questioned the alleged links between former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi.
'Shaken and worried': Sonia Gandhi speaks up about fighting cancer twice
Sonia Gandhi shares her personal medical challenges with cancer in her recently released memoir. After a breast cancer surgery in 2010, she discovered a tumor in her pancreas a year later. Gandhi underwent subsequent surgeries in Italy and the Netherlands, revealing the emotional turmoil these experiences caused her. During a campaign in 2016, she collapsed from fatigue, leading to another surgery for a broken shoulder.
Family disputes resurface as Sonia Gandhi holds Sanjay responsible for Emergency: KC Tyagi
Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD)leader K C Tyagi said there was a discussion at the time of the Emergency that Sanjay Gandhi, Om Mehta, Siddhartha Shankar Ray and Bansi Lal were opposed to any kind of compromise and wanted confrontation.
Anti-Sikh riots remain tragic and shameful chapter in country's history: Sonia Gandhi
Sonia Gandhi reflects on her memories of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots following Indira Gandhi's assassination. Rajiv Gandhi made national appeals for peace amidst the violence and chaos that ensued. Several commissions were established in hopes of delivering justice to the victims of the riots. Despite the government's efforts, justice has been slow and unsatisfactory for those affected.
Sanjay Gandhi was man in a hurry, played significant role in decision-making during Emergency: Sonia
In her insights, Sonia Gandhi discusses Sanjay Gandhi's pivotal role during the Emergency from 1975 to 1977. She highlights the repression of political opposition and the erosions of civil liberties that defined this era. Sanjay’s ambitious strategies, particularly in family planning and urban development, ignited public backlash against the regime.
Great damage done to India's fabric under Modi government, people now recognising it: Sonia Gandhi
Sonia Gandhi has expressed concerns over the damage inflicted on India's democracy and institutions in recent years. She emphasized that the Congress has never compromised with the BJP and RSS, and continues to fight for constitutional values. According to Gandhi, the party has faced severe challenges but remains resilient in the face of adversity. She mentioned her personal journey and motivations for entering public life.
Emergency a mistake, Indira came to feel the same: Sonia Gandhi
Sonia Gandhi reveals her belief that the Emergency imposed by Indira Gandhi was a significant mistake. She suggests that if Sanjay Gandhi had been kept in check, much of the subsequent damage could have been avoided. Indira Gandhi's decision was influenced by various pressures, including those from her younger son Sanjay and several advisors.
Sonia Gandhi says Penguin was 'uneasy' with criticism of govt
Sonia Gandhi expressed disappointment over Penguin Random House India's refusal to publish her memoir due to government criticism. Although inclined to publish, the publisher reportedly faced internal disagreements regarding the manuscript's content. Subsequent concerns were raised regarding potential government pressure affecting the book's publication. HarperCollins India has now confirmed publication of her memoir, 'Belonging: A Journey of Love,' on November 10.
'Kept my Italian passport because it was part of me': Sonia Gandhi recounts renouncing Italian citizenship in memoir
Sonia Gandhi detailed her experience of renouncing her Italian citizenship and adopting Indian nationality in her memoir. She described the emotional process of surrendering her passport, which symbolized part of her identity. Over time, she felt increasingly disconnected from her life in Italy and embraced her life in India. The renunciation was emphasized by the Italian embassy official, highlighting the permanence of her decision.
Sonia Gandhi reveals her rare exchanges with Modi, and what sets them apart
Sonia Gandhi reveals she has limited personal contact with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during official gatherings. She notes that their interactions are often formal, marked by a lack of eye contact. Gandhi reflects on their contrasting visions for India, focusing on inclusiveness and social justice against RSS-inspired ideology.
'I'll have to come back for his funeral': Sonia Gandhi recalls son's words ahead of Rajiv Gandhi's assassination
Sonia Gandhi reflects on the night of her husband Rajiv Gandhi's assassination in May 1991. She recounts her son Rahul's ominous premonition about Rajiv's security just months prior. Priyanka informed her of the tragedy after a bomb explosion in Sriperumbudur. As the family dealt with the shock, they struggled to comprehend the devastating news. The memoir captures the profound grief and chaos following Rajiv's death, highlighting family resilience.
India fallen way down list of nations deemed liberal democracies under Modi govt: Sonia
Sonia Gandhi, in her memoir, critiques the Modi government's impact on India's democratic institutions and social fabric. She highlights the growing wealth disparity and lack of transparency in governance under the current regime. Gandhi expresses concern over the media's loss of independence and the suppression of dissenting voices in society.
'Old habits die hard': Sonia Gandhi recalls Bill Clinton 'surreptitiously sizing up' beautiful women at reception called by Atal Bihari Vajpayee
Sonia Gandhi's memoir Belonging: A Journey Of Love recalled Clinton's 2000 visit to India. She says she noticed Bill Clinton discreetly looking at women during a reception hosted by then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. She also recounts Sarkozy's 2008 visit without Carla Bruni and his later appearance with her after their marriage. The memoir includes her memories of meeting Princess Diana, describing her warmth, charm and difficult marriage to Prince Charles.
Sonia Gandhi's memoir recalls the stormy years of 'Choti Bahu' Maneka
Sonia Gandhi's memoir explores the familial and political tensions within the Gandhi family. Maneka Gandhi's marriage to Sanjay ignited complex dynamics leading to significant disagreements. Indira Gandhi's concerns about Sanjay's political ambitions and Maneka's influence further strained relationships. The eventual fallout resulted in Maneka's departure, which Sonia describes in detail in her book. This historical account outlines the impact of personal conflicts on political landscapes within a prominent family.
Sonia Gandhi reveals how Pranab Mukherjee hinted at replacing PM Manmohan Singh
Pranab Mukherjee hinted at his aspiration to become prime minister during a conversation with Sonia Gandhi in 2010. Sonia Gandhi's memoir reveals their discussion about a potential change in leadership at that time. She recounts how Mukherjee's frustrations with the Finance Minister led him to suggest this change. Gandhi also dismisses allegations of her being a back-seat driver during the UPA government.
BJP's C R Keshavan accuses Sonia Gandhi of whitewashing Emergency in recently published memoir
C R Kesavan of BJP accused Sonia Gandhi of attempting to justify the Emergency in her new memoir. He suggested that her book should focus on historical wrongs instead of glossing over them. Kesavan raised concerns about her perceived emotional responses to violence during Congress rule, including the 1984 Sikh riots and terrorist attacks. The spokesperson condemned her remarks on the Emergency as an attempt to normalise past injustices.
Sonia Gandhi went from 'absolutely not' to 'theek hai' to firm no while deciding on taking up PM post
Sonia Gandhi reflects on her decision to decline the prime ministership after the 2004 elections. Her children expressed concern over the dangers associated with the position. Despite initial pressure from alliance leaders, she ultimately stood firm on her decision. Gandhi describes a moment of self-reflection that led her to nominate Manmohan Singh instead. The entire experience was emotionally taxing for her and her family.
Not a political book but a personal one: Sonia Gandhi on her memoir
Sonia Gandhi prepares to unveil her memoir, positioning it as a personal narrative rather than a political one. Through candid reflections, she explores the love that guides her life and recounts the family tragedies that have shaped her. Her five-decade journey in Indian politics is depicted with sincerity, revealing the motivations and struggles of her family. The memoir is set for release on November 10 under HarperCollins India.
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