1984 Riots and Rahul Gandhi’s Remark: Is Congress Trying to Cleanse Its Past or Rebuild Political Credibility?

National News: For the first time, Rahul Gandhi has accepted the historical responsibility of the Congress, considering Operation Blue Star of 1984 as 'mistake' from the public platform. When Rahul Gandhi was questioned on this issue at an event held at Brown University in America, he clearly said, "I am ready to take responsibility for whatever mistakes made from the Congress in the 80s."

The video of this statement went viral on Sunday, after which a sharp debate started in political circles. The BJP immediately reacted to this. The party's IT cell chief Amit Malviya said, "Now Rahul Gandhi's criticism is not only in India but also abroad."

Sikh youth directly challenged Rahul

A Sikh youth present in the program asked Rahul Gandhi sharp questions and said that the Sikhs did not have freedom of expression under the Congress rule. He mentioned the Anandpur Sahib resolution and questioned the Congress calling him a "separatist document". He said, "Sajjan Kumar was punished by the court, but there are people in the Congress even today." Rahul said in response that he was not in the party at that time, but still he is ready to take responsibility for the mistakes of the Congress's past.

Political strategy or heart remorse?

This statement of Rahul Gandhi has come at a time when the politics of Punjab is once again turning. The shadow of the Sikh riots of 1984 is still deeply present on the image of the Congress, especially its trust among the Sikh community has not been completely restored. In such a situation, the question arises whether this statement of Rahul Gandhi is only a gesture to take historical responsibility, or is there a strategy for political rehabilitation? Experts believe that Rahul Gandhi is trying to re-establish the Congress's credibility among the Sikhs. The stains of the 1984 riots are still a burden for the Congress, and in a sensitive state like Punjab, it could have a direct impact on electoral results.

Will Congress benefit from this?

This statement presents Rahul Gandhi in the image of an "apologizing, sensitive leader", which has the courage to accept the old mistakes of the Congress. It can entice youth and generous sections, but opposition parties like BJP are calling it "tarnishing the image of India abroad".

However, it is also true that by raising this issue, Rahul Gandhi has once again tried to make the Congress accountable in front of the Sikh community. If this effort continues honestly, it can reinforce the weak grip of the Congress in Punjab.

Trying to wash stains or look for a new path?

Rahul Gandhi's statement may also be an attempt to 'damage control' for the Congress and also an important step towards restoration of confidence in the Sikh community. But it is certain that with this conflict, he has revived the debate on a sensitive issue. In the coming time, this statement can become an opportunity for the Congress and also a challenge.