Opposition no bar

Sushma Swarajs appearance at the Vir Bhumi to pay homage to Rajiv Gandhi on his death anniversary surprised many as it was perhaps the first time that a BJP Leader of the Opposition attended such a function. But Swaraj herself was more surprised by the huge interest that her visit had evoked,with talks of political bonhomie doing the rounds. A curious Swaraj got in touch with senior leader and her predecessor,L K Advani,to inquire whether it indeed was the first time that a Leader of the Opposition attended a function to mark the birth or death anniversary of a former Congress prime minister. Advani made light of it and suggested that there was nothing wrong in a constitutional functionary like the Leader of the Opposition extending such courtesies. Swaraj now says she would attend such functions in the future also,provided they are organised by departments or ministries,and refuses to attach any political significance to the matter.