Rajasthan Congress chief praises Hindutva icon Veer Savarkar
A statement from Rajasthan Congress president, Govind Dotasara, has caused a stir in the state. While addressing Congress workers in Jaipur, he praised Hindutva icon Veer Savarkar.
"No one can deny that Savarkar participated in the freedom movement. He played an important role and we never hesitate in admitting it," he said.
He added: "His demand of Hindu Rashtra before the independence was valid. But after the independence, when the Constitution came into force, this became null and void."
Dotasara, however, was quick to condemn Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for induling in divisive politics.
Savarkar is often fiercely derided by the current Congress leadership, including former president Rahul Gandhi, for aligning with the British dispensation during the freedom movement. His contribution to the freeddom struggle is also denied.
However, former prime minister Indira Gandhi also used to praise Savarkar and acknowledge his role in India's independence.
