Advani begs to differ, rules out apology for demolition

JAIPUR, Jan 27: Bharatiya Janata Party president L K Advani today categorically stated that his party would not extend an apology for demoli...

JAIPUR, Jan 27: Bharatiya Janata Party president L K Advani today categorically stated that his party would not extend an apology for demolition of the disputed structure at Ayodhya in 1992 and held the then Central Government responsible for the unfortunate incident. Addressing a press conference here today, Advani said the then Central Government was responsible for demolition of the structure at Ayodhya saying that the government should have filed an application before the Allahabad High Court praying for decision on the case prior to December six, 1992.

Advani said the then Kalyan Singh Government in Uttar Pradesh should not be held guilty for the demolition which he (Advani) described as unfortunate.

Advani also categorically reiterated the party’s resolve to do away with Article 370 of the Constitution if it comes to power, at the same time hinting at a closer relationship with the National Conference (NC) in Jammu and Kashmir. The article deals with the special status enjoyed by the State.

Story continues below this ad

Advanisaid Article 370 was being used as a tool by Pakistan to mislead the Kashmiri people. He also promised that the BJP would delegate more power to all States, far beyond what had been stipulated by the Sarkaria Commission.

When asked why he was “soft” on the Farooq Abdullah Government when condemning the January 25 Wandhama Ganderbal massacre, Advani said though there were shortcomings in the NC’s rule, it was an elected government and the BJP “does not demand the dismissal of elected governments casually”.

Advani also added that the problem of terrorism could be solved jointly by the Centre and the State. He claimed Abdullah himself was dissatisfied with the Centre’s approach.