BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia, during a press conference, asserted that the book unveils significant details regarding the involvement of Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi in the Bofors affair. He emphasized that the Gandhis should relinquish their roles as Members of Parliament until they provide a comprehensive disclosure of their association with Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi, who is alleged to have acted as a middleman in the deal.
Chitra Subramaniam, renowned for her investigative journalism that first brought the Bofors scandal to light in the 1980s, offers an in-depth narrative in her new book. She details the challenges faced during her investigation, including personal risks and professional obstacles, while navigating through various international locations such as Stockholm, Geneva, and New Delhi.
The Bofors scandal originated from a 1986 agreement between the Indian government and Swedish arms manufacturer Bofors for the supply of howitzer artillery guns. Allegations emerged that kickbacks were paid to Indian officials and politicians to secure the contract, leading to a political upheaval that tarnished the reputation of then-Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and contributed to the Congress party's electoral defeat in 1989.
In her book, Subramaniam reveals that certain Indian investigators allegedly attempted to implicate actor Amitabh Bachchan in the scandal without substantial evidence. She contends that a team of investigators 'planted' stories to divert attention from the primary accused, which raises questions about the integrity of the initial investigation.
The BJP has seized upon these revelations to intensify its critique of the Congress leadership. Bhatia stated that the book's disclosures necessitate accountability from Sonia and Rahul Gandhi, urging them to step down until they clarify their positions regarding the allegations.
Conversely, Congress representatives have dismissed the BJP's demands as politically motivated. They argue that the Bofors case has been extensively investigated over the years, resulting in no conclusive evidence against the Gandhi family. Congress leaders maintain that revisiting the issue serves as a diversion from current governmental shortcomings.
Legal experts note that the Bofors case has seen multiple investigations and judicial proceedings, with several key figures either acquitted or charges against them dropped due to insufficient evidence. However, the emergence of new claims in Subramaniam's book could potentially prompt renewed scrutiny, depending on the substantiation of the allegations.
Political analysts observe that the BJP's renewed focus on the Bofors scandal aligns with a broader strategy to challenge the credibility of the Congress party's leadership. By highlighting historical controversies, the BJP aims to influence public perception ahead of forthcoming electoral contests.
Chitra Subramaniam's book also underscores the challenges faced by journalists in pursuing investigative reporting, particularly when confronting powerful political entities. Her account sheds light on the personal and professional risks undertaken to uncover truths in complex political landscapes.