Few days ago the President Pranab Mukherji released 2nd edition of his book, " The Turbulent Years 1980-1996. " There were lot of speculations about sensational revelations in the book in the media. This piqued my interest to read it but the book was out of stock on Amazon. But as per the available reports, Mukherji, while discussing Babri-Masjid, it seems, pointed out that that its demolition was an act of absolute perfidy which should make all Indians hang their heads in shame. As every one knows, that the demolition of Babri-Masjid indeed has deeply wounded the sentiments of Muslim community, in India and abroad. But after somany years of demolition, why is he raising this issue now? Infact he was part of the Govt, then and what was he doing at that time? I feel it is better not sprinkle salt on the wounds of Muslims and as the President of India, now, he should take concrete steps that no other religious place, be it a Masjid or Church , to be demolished ,
It was reported that he has accused the former PM P.V. Narasimha Rao with regards to his role in the demolition. Many books on this subject were in the market that time including PV's own book giving clarifications. PVRK Prasad, former Media Advisor and Additional Secretary who was working closely with him on this exclusive issue also cleared the air by mentioning it in detail, in one of his books.PV in his capacity might have failed to avert the unfortunate event but it would not be unfair to dub it as something perfidy and a mistake committed by the then PM? He had sent Para Military troops to Ayyodhya and conducted series of consultations with both Hindu organisations and other stake holders. As a true follower of constitution, he must have hesitated to impose President's rule, as a preemptive measure, fearing to be perceived by some as unconstitutional or anti- Hindu. He can be blamed for his failure to assess the turn of events and gravity of the situation but can not be held guiltiest than the real perpetrators. Pranab Mukherji should have restrained from hurling accusations on his bete noire who is no more to defend himself.
