Chandigarh, November 11, 2026: Launching a scathing attack on Sonia Gandhi, senior BJP leader – Sanjay Tandon, who is also a member of the party’s National Council, has questioned the absence of introspection and accountability in senior Congress leader’s book ‘Belonging: A Journey of Love’. Tandon said that while he has no objection to her writing a book, people expect a leader who has played a significant role in the country’s politics to honestly reflect on the mistakes, controversies and critical events associated with her political journey.
In a statement, Tandon said it was unfortunate that the book highlights the achievements of Sonia Gandhi and her family but remains silent on several significant political controversies and events that have shaped the country’s history. Raising questions over the title of the book, Tandon asked why Sonia Gandhi had failed to mention the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and the inhuman atrocities committed against members of the Sikh community. “Gurdwaras were burnt in Delhi, and innocent people were set ablaze. When Sonia Gandhi had expressed her views on the Batla House encounter and the demolition of the Babri Masjid, where was that concern and compassion for the families who suffered during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots?” he asked.
Referring to the Emergency, Tandon said the Congress leaders frequently speak about press freedom and democratic rights, but the party’s own history includes the suspension of press freedom and the curtailment of citizens’ fundamental rights during the Emergency. He also questioned the absence of any introspection on serious issues such as forced sterilisation. “Can Sonia Gandhi not find the courage to acknowledge the political mistakes committed by her party and family? A memoir should not merely celebrate achievements; it should also demonstrate the willingness to accept responsibility,” Tandon said. He further pointed to the Bofors controversy, allegations surrounding coal block allocations during the Manmohan Singh-led UPA government, and the corruption allegations that marked the Congress-led UPA’s ten-year rule. He also questioned the absence of any reference to Rahul Gandhi publicly tearing up an ordinance brought by the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s government.
Tandon also called for greater transparency regarding the agreement between the Congress and the Communist Party of China, along with the questions surrounding it. He questioned why the book did not address significant national developments, including the construction of the Ram Temple, or reflect on key issues associated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure. Emphasising that an autobiography or memoir should serve as an honest account of one’s public life, Tandon said it must have the courage to acknowledge mistakes, address difficult questions and present history with sincerity. “Sonia Gandhi had an opportunity to offer an impartial assessment of her long political journey, but she has missed it. The people do not want merely a recital of achievements; they also want answers to the questions that are integral to the country’s political and democratic history,” he said.
