Why does the BJP go on the defensive whenever questions are raised about the VHP?R BalasundaramVHP is an independent organisation and the BJP does not get defensive about their activities. BJP is also concerned about certain issues such as Ram temple in Ayodhya, Gorakhsa etc. But BJP has its own views. When issues are common, it may look as if the BJP is defending VHP, but that’s not correct. BJP wants Ram temple to be built at Ayodhya with a consensus among the communities and religious leaders so communal harmony can prevail in the country.Do you feel that your appointment as a Union minister has helped appease the hardliners in the party and the VHP?Sudhir MishraMy appointment to the Council of Ministers is based upon merit, which the honourable Prime Minister must have observed. I have been serving the Parliament and the people for more than a decade. This is the first time that a Sadhu like me has been asked to look after Home Affairs. I am sure that the purity of thoughts and the purity of deeds have been honoured in this way and it should reflect in my work also. The question of appeasing anyone does not arise, as my appointment to is a choice of the PM and not a part of any kind of lobbying.What exactly is your stand regarding Ayodhya? Do you feel the temple should be built there no matter what it takes?Navin PirachaAyodhya is the brithplace of Bhagwan Ram. The fact that a temple existed there at Janmasthan, as mentioned in various gazettes of the British period, has been confirmed by the ASI report submitted before the court. The disputed structure, which was destroyed on December 6, 1992, was built over this temple in the 16th century as per the ASI report. At present, a legislation cannot be brought in Parliament to settle the dispute as most of the parties are not in favour of such a legislation. A consensus is required even to bring such a legislation. In my view the best and the quickest possible solution to the problem can be achieved through out-of-court settlement only. Both Hindus and Muslims are looking forward for such a solution. The VHP, with its efforts to Talibanise the Hindu society, seems to be playing the role of the Opposition in its scathing attacks against the PM and his colleagues. Can’t you rein in the VHP or disown it fully?K Y PandurangaVHP is an independent organisation and I would not like to comment on their views. The government and society will take care of that. Their criticism of the PM or the Central Govt is unfortunate. VHP should cooperate with the BJP and support the efforts of the PM to find out an amicable solution to the Ayodhya problem. There is no question of BJP controlling or reining in VHP as it is a separate organisation with its own agenda.
