Throughout his political career, Rajiv Gandhi was dearly loved by the masses. Feelings of anger and outrage over his assassination still prevail among a vast majority of Indians — 17 years after the tragedy. It is remarkable that the people most affected by the tragedy — members of his own family — have risen above negative emotions and have actually maintained a dialogue with one of his assassins.

Nalini Sriharan, the sole survivor of Rajiv Gandhi’s assassination squad, had earned a death sentence for her role in the assassination of the former prime minister. But her action did not prevent Rajiv’s widow Sonia Gandhi from pleading for clemency on her behalf — for Nalini was mother to a young daughter. While Sonia Gandhi displayed the highest form of compassion in forgiving someone who was at least partly responsible for her husband’s assassination, Priyanka Gandhi, her daughter, recently went ahead and met Nalini in a prison in Vellore, where she is serving her life sentence.

Priyanka carried no ill-feeling or hatred for Nalini at the time of her meeting. The two women actually discussed their lives and children in the course of their conversation. Her brother Rahul Gandhi further made it clear that his family carries no hatred or ill-will. By deciding to make peace with the perpetrator of the biggest tragedy on their lives, the Gandhi family has raised the bar for immaculate public conduct even further.

Ramdev’s politics

I am eager to hear reactions from Baba Ramdev’s numerous followers after their leader’s latest crusade against the country’s cricketers, bureaucrats and politicians. By teaching complex yoga techniques in a lucid manner, Baba touched the hearts of millions across the country and endeared himself to the masses. Lately though, he seems to have taken to playing a different role — if his string of caustic remarks against the central leadership and the cricketers are any indicators. Surprisingly, he is not even shying from trying his hand at dictating India’s foreign policy.

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