Since the shocking verdict of the Bhopal gas tragedy, Congress veteran Arjun Singh has been facing criticism from all quarters
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| Lips sealed: Arjun Singh has been accused of helping Anderson exit the country |
Since the shocking verdict of the Bhopal gas tragedy, Congress veteran Arjun Singh has been facing criticism from all quarters. The BJP has called for strict action against the then Madhya Pradesh chief minister for playing 'friend in need' to Union Carbide chief Warren Anderson. The media isu00a0 recalling the crucial role Singh played in Anderson's exit.
It's been a fortnight since the verdict, but Singh has decided not to revisit the gas leak despite the growing attack on him. Speculation is rife that the Congressman has decided to keep mum following pressure from his son Ajay Singh and daughter Veena Singh, who are both exploring a future with the Congress. Interestingly, both were denied a ticket to the Congress last April.u00a0u00a0u00a0
A state Congress leader from Madhya Pradesh, on the condition of anonymity, said, "Singh is not the only one responsible for the Bhopal fiasco and if he speaks out he will be able to clarify the allegations. But there is a huge pressure on him from his family as they want to make a foray into the Congress."u00a0
Singh's unwillingness to speak up has given fodder to the Opposition. Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, senior national vice president, BJP said, "Singh is silent to prove his loyalty to the Gandhis. He's aware that if he takes an anti-party stand, his family's future is sealed as far as politics goes."u00a0u00a0u00a0u00a0u00a0
Even victims of the gas tragedy feel that Singh is trying to protect India's first family. Raisha Bi, who lost nine of her family members to the gas leak said, "Singh is making sure that their image is not tarnished. The Gandhi family played a crucial role in letting Anderson flee."u00a0u00a0u00a0u00a0
Repeated calls to Ajay Singh's residence in Bhopal went unanswered.
