Rediff On The NeT: Transcript of the V P Singh Chat


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The V P Singh Chat

At 6.30 pm on Monday, we had a call from Nayan Momaya, one of V P Singh's associates. The former prime minister's blood pressure had shot up alarmingly, suddenly, and he was in no shape to travel from Raj Bhavan, where he is staying, to the Rediff On The NeT office on Bombay's Homji Street.
Mr Singh was under medication, so we quickly arranged to transfer the venue of the Chat to Raj Bhavan. Correspondent Syed Firdaus Ashraf and Photographer Jewella C Miranda rushed to Nariman Point where Systems Administrator Shailesh Soni was testing the facilities for Tuesday's Chat with SEBI Chairman D R Mehta. The trio, laptop in tow, then raced through the late evening traffic to Raj Bhavan, five kilometres away.
But even as they were doing so, Mr Singh felt slightly better and decided not to disappoint Rediff readers. He arrived with wife Sita Singh 15 minutes to deadline, looking ill but eager to encounter chatters in cyberspace.
"I am a bit dull today," he said on his arrival, "but I didn't want to disappoint anyone."
And disappoint he certainly did not. Not once in the two hours he took questions from Internet users worldwide.

Most of the questions were hostile, but Rajasaabkept his cool, providing insight and illumination the way only he can.

coomi (Mon Sep 9 19:45:38 1996 IST):

Namakar VP Singhji!

doles (Mon Sep 9 19:58:04 1996 IST):

Hello out there! Anyone at the Chat room?

Girish (Mon Sep 9 19:58:11 1996 IST):

Hello Mr Singh, Don't you feel bitter about the fact that when you passed the Mandal Commission the upper classes protested and so did he press but today , reservation is a way of life, and it is our legacy.Could you comment on this please

saando (Mon Sep 9 19:59:05 1996 IST):

hey doles this is saando calling

Raj Kumar (Mon Sep 9 19:59:12 1996 IST):

Raj Kumar, Mamaste! Mr. Singh

Girish (Mon Sep 9 19:59:17 1996 IST):

Raj Kumar (Mon Sep 9 19:59:22 1996 IST):

Raj Kumar, Mamaste! Mr. Singh

Sanjiv Shah (Mon Sep 9 19:59:24 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh: When you became Prime minister, you accepted support from BJP. BJP was communal then, and communal Now. Why would you not support BJP now? If you think You made mistake then, would you appologize to the public who once trusted you most?

Nikhil Lakshman (Mon Sep 9 19:59:28 1996 IST):

Welcome, Mr Singh, to the Rediff Chat. It is an honour to have you with us this evening. We really appreciate the fact that you are with us today, despite your illhealth. I hope you enjoy this Chat.

Raj Kumar (Mon Sep 9 20:00:34 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh Why did you encourage castiest politics in India, i think job selection should be based on merit not caste

shikha (Mon Sep 9 20:02:48 1996 IST):

Hello everyone. Mr Singh not in yet?

doles (Mon Sep 9 20:03:18 1996 IST):

It is very kind of you to chat with us despite your ill health. I do hope you are feeling better now. What are your views on the present Government's capabilities?

Sanjiv Shah (Mon Sep 9 20:04:25 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh: You supported Mandal Commision Report and increased reservations for educational purposes. India is doing this for 50 years. If you consider lower caste still lower, would you please let these caste know, How have you helped them in past 50 years?

saando (Mon Sep 9 20:04:35 1996 IST):

Hello mr Singh what are your comments on the fact that even after 49 years of independence we still have to have the reservation for people whose parents have already availed the benefits of the system once before.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 20:05:05 1996 IST):

Girish: No I don't feel bitter about it though I feel sad about the children who lost their lives. I do feel a sense of satisfaction and achievement when after such a vehement opposition by a section of society, today every party has endorsed Mandal. I also feel vindicated by the fact that the highest forum of the country, that is the Supreme Court, also upheld the Mandal Commission report and certainly, the Judges were not looking for any political gain or a ticket from the Janata Dal. Yes, it was natural for the upper classes to protest, because the Mandal Commission affected the very power structure of the socio-political order, and then the conditioning of the mind over thousands of years cannot be done away in a day. More so, they were bitter about me personally, because in 1989 when they supported me, and I got a lot of support from the middle classes, they had not expected Mandal from me though it was in the manifesto. So when Mandal came, they felt very personally let down, and the made the anger more acute and personalised towards me. But I owed a duty to the vast majority of youth that constituted the backwards and scheduled castes.

Saurav (Mon Sep 9 20:05:28 1996 IST):

Raja sahab, are you in??

Girish (Mon Sep 9 20:06:09 1996 IST):

Mr Singh I have to admit that I have my reseravtions about the reservation policy:-)*no pun intended* Is it nescessary to fight one evil of deserving students not getting the chance because of their caste, by creating another evil of desrving students of higher castes not getting te chance? Today the scene is this, that OBC teachers who are under qualified for the job are teaching students from convents , those teachers are ill equipped in many respects as far a depth of knowledge is concerned as well as many fundamental things a teacher requires, Isn't education one area which shapes the future of our country? how can we tamper with our future? Just for the sake of meting ut justice that was a long time coming?

Alex Bradley (Mon Sep 9 20:06:21 1996 IST):

Sir, it is an honour to converse with you today. A lot of us in the West are despondent about India's future. Do you share that pessimism?

shikha (Mon Sep 9 20:06:22 1996 IST):

Mr Singh, what was the reason for your not accepting the offer of the UF coalition to head the same and become Prime Minister??

Saanya (Mon Sep 9 20:07:03 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: Why is it that a non-corrupt politician cannot survive in Indian politics?

Sanjiv Shah (Mon Sep 9 20:07:09 1996 IST):

Mr singh: You promised people of India to bring truth about Bofors commision? Where is the truth? Did you lie then?

Girish (Mon Sep 9 20:08:09 1996 IST):

Raj Kumar (Mon Sep 9 20:08:30 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh, you vowed to leave politics but still hanging on to it, howcomw, I thionk you should quit now and not damage fabric of Indian caste system, you are solely responsible for playing castiest politics now it is Mulyam (babar's auladd), Kanshi ram etc. Please leave and take rest.

Saurav (Mon Sep 9 20:08:54 1996 IST):

Mr Singh, the forum on which you are speaking right now, is a product of global research and that means merit and just merit. Didn't your infamous Mandal theory make merit a slave of casteism, where the former always has to be subservient to the latter, and the present state of the civil services is the greatest example, with bright students getting ranks like 50, do not get IAS or IFS?

shikha (Mon Sep 9 20:09:07 1996 IST):

Mr Singh, what was the reason for your not accepting the offer of the UF coalition to head the same and become Prime Minister??

Saanya (Mon Sep 9 20:09:26 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: I am a student. And I feel that Mandal was unfair to me. Why should I lose out on a seat - despite the fact that, on pure merit, I deserve it - to someone who does not deserve it based on merit?

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:09:35 1996 IST):

Mr Singh do you believe in the caste system?

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 20:09:47 1996 IST):

Sanjiv Shah: At that time, the main desire from the people was to dislodge the Congress which had become a symbol of corruption and one which had distorted the symbol of democracy. It was an atmosphere like 1977 when Mr Jai Prakash Narayan led the opposition. Not that I compare any to Jai Prakash, but the basic point was that Jai Prakas also took support from every quarter including the BJP. No one can even remotely think that Jai Prakash was supporting communalism. So I drew lessons from history, that that was the way to dislodge the Congress. I also had the comfort that when the BJP walked out of the Janata Party, its membership in Parliament fell to two! So I thought that if it becomes aggresively communal, we can part ways and it will meet the same fate in future. Anyway, now I have learnt better.

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:10:13 1996 IST):

Namaste Mr. V.P. Singh ? I would like to know you that when you blame BJP to spread poison of "Communalism", Don't you think that you are also guilty of spreading "Castesim" in the society ? You advocate for "Social Justice" that is suppression of backward class in the past indian history should be undone , but what about "religious justice". Are you aware of our history that how many temples were demolished by Aurangzeb and other kings ? How many hindus were forced to convert themselves as Muslim ? If BJP is guilty to spread communalism then how people like you (Psuedo - Secularists) can escape the blame of spreading castesim in society. I am very much supporter of social welfare work for down trodden sections of society but not in the way, people like you have initiated it ? See the results of your deeds - In U.P. & Bihar, elections are being fought purely on cast issues only ? In my opinion, you people are also guilty , if you blame BJP ? Would you like to comment or correct me, if I am wrong ? Please answer.

doles (Mon Sep 9 20:11:33 1996 IST):

Mr Singh, Do you think the lot of the school/college teachers will ever improve? In a recent ruling we heard that teachers do not even get wages similar to a skilled worker's daily wages ......they were told they belonged to a NOBLE profession and could not be equated with labour! But a teacher can starve.. ia that fair? Are people at the top ever going to think about improving the lot of these noble ones?

Saurav (Mon Sep 9 20:11:41 1996 IST):

Every party accepting Mandal does not make it right. If that were true, then thousands of students not accepting it should also have been a vindication of the policy's failure. In fact, bright students who lose out today would like to see you repent. What say you?

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:12:34 1996 IST):

Manish Kailer (Mon Sep 9 20:12:38 1996 IST):

Sir, you are responsible to divide India on caste lines, you have encouraged minorities to obtain votes, why are you against upper castes, have they done anything wrong, you play dirty politics sir.

V.S.Joshi (Mon Sep 9 20:13:10 1996 IST):

Mr. V.P.Singh, Hello Sir,I am a Hindu and also from the so called upper caste, and still you are my favourite politician. Whatever you have done requires the courage of conviction. I have been defending your actions within my community and I realise that the frustration creeps up because wrong people get the benefit of reservation policy. Why can't they come out with a rule which says that two generations from a family would get the benefits of reservation policy. Your comments please. V.S.JOSHI

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:14:12 1996 IST):

Mr Singh, you were a very admirable person when you were motivated towards rooting out corruption in the country. WHy did you change horses? We need a politician who concentrates on corruption. Why don't you once again switch horses. I admired you deeply when you were struggling with that cause.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 20:14:39 1996 IST):

shikha: I had made a public commitment that till the year 1999, I'll not be in electoral politics, so it was as simple as honouring one's word Alex Brady: Thank you very much. If we look to India's record, its system has shown a lot of resilience and strength. Indian democracy has withstood wars, change of government, assassinations of its prime ministers,the oil shock, natural calamities of floods and droughts. So there is a basic strength in its economic and political system as it has withstood all the possible laboratory tests that can be made on a nation's democracy. Certainly, India will make it.

Sanjiv Shah (Mon Sep 9 20:15:07 1996 IST):

Mr.Singh: If congress was corrupt then, it is more corrupt now. You know it. We all know it. Would you justify accepting congress support now?

Alex Bradley (Mon Sep 9 20:15:32 1996 IST):

Mr Singh, you are bound to encounter a lot of hostility from the so-called upper castes in India. I don't think you should be daunted -- not that you would be. You have done more to salvage India's downtrodden than anyone else in recent history.

saando (Mon Sep 9 20:15:35 1996 IST):

dear mr Singh do you forsee an end to this caste based reservation policy before the turn of the century?

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:16:00 1996 IST):

Another question from you that I was very much surprised that you have not said any word against 'Bihar Government' for Animal Husbandary scam and Fodder Scams ? Don't you feel that your JD govt. should be accountable for loss of public money. You used to be torch bearer against corruption during bofors days of Rajeev Gandhi . You initiated a crusade against govt. that time but why "Silence" this time.

Rajinder Singh (Mon Sep 9 20:17:52 1996 IST):

Sir, how can you call BJP communal when you encouraged politics of caste by intiating Mandal commission, you are after votes of dalits and Muslims, what you achieved as PM, kill innocent students. Why can't you people fight elections on issues rather than calling each other communal .

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:17:55 1996 IST):

B Subramaniam (Mon Sep 9 20:18:26 1996 IST):

Good evening, Rajasaab. I must make a confession here. I despised you when you were prime minister. But now I believe India needs you desparately. Now. You have everything this country needs. Buty I know you won't play the power game. What hope does India have for young people like me who despise of all this graft and lack of integrity.

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:18:34 1996 IST):

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:18:35 1996 IST):

Saanya (Mon Sep 9 20:18:52 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: I agree with Vivek. I casta my first vote when I was 18. And I cast it for you because I believed you would make a difference. But you broke my faith in politicians. I did not vote during the next elections because I was so disappointed. I have heard that you will never meet a nicer man that V P Singh, the man. So what happened to V P Singh, the politician?

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:18:54 1996 IST):

Sunita (Mon Sep 9 20:19:43 1996 IST):

Good evening Mr. Singh. It really is a pleasure to have this rare opportunity to speak to you. Mr Singh, what were your personal feelings about the way you had to resign as Prime Minister after the BJP withdrew it's support?

Karl (Mon Sep 9 20:20:05 1996 IST):

Mr Singh by now you must be tierd of answering questions about MANDAL, tell me Mr Singh in these recent elections the people's choice was the BJP, but the other parties got together and saw to it thatthis would not be the case.What kind of democracy is this? In which all that matters is political power, we don't matter at all? Your comments please.

doles (Mon Sep 9 20:20:32 1996 IST):

Please answer my question. What will you do to better the lot of the teaching community.. They earn much less than an unskilled labour dispite being a NOBLE profession

Sanjiv Shah (Mon Sep 9 20:20:55 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: Would you consider Narsingha Rao better than Rajiv Gandhi? If so why?

Alex Bradley (Mon Sep 9 20:21:00 1996 IST):

Mr Singh, to what would you attribute the rise of India's backward classes? Would you say that Mandal gave them a right to reassert themselves? And would you say that the centrist forces have lost forever the ground in UP where the battle will be fought between the rightists and the forces represented by the backwards?

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:21:22 1996 IST):

Raja Sahib,How did you feel when BJP withdrew its support?

saando (Mon Sep 9 20:22:03 1996 IST):

By the way is it really vP singh or is re diff pulling our leg. To prov the point what was your son doing(studying/working) in 4 th quarter of 1986. The time you were finance minister.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 20:22:04 1996 IST):

Piyush: I would like you to consider the decisions of the Supreme Court on communalism as well as social justice, that is the Mandal Commission. The Supreme Court has clearly come out against communalism, but has fully endorsed the Mandal Commission, not only formally, but in substance. Would you consider the Supreme Court to be casteist? And mind you they were upper caste judges in it, and they delivered the judgement when I was not in power but when Narasimha Rao was in power. If you read the Supreme Court judgement, all your questions will be answered. And also consider, how is it, in the United States, which is an open democracy and capitalism is there, that they have affirmative action for the Blacks has been upheld by one judge after the other of the highest courts. About the past, there have always been not right things done from our assessment today. But does it mean that we again rehearse all the conflicts that have occurred in the centuries past. Is there not enough blood on the pages of history that we have to spill more?

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:22:42 1996 IST):

Perhaps the moment is ripe now for someone to begin a new party based on a Mr Clean kind of philosophy. Why don't you take that on?

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:22:46 1996 IST):

Sir! When you started your crusade against corruption, you said many times in public meetings that you will reveal the names of persons who are responsible for "Bofors" scam within few days, if your party will be in power. After 8 years from those days, people of INDIA are stil willing to know from you that who were those persons (who get kickbacks in "Bofors"). Do you have answer today ? What about those promises to public ? or it was just a trick to capture power ?

Nikhil Lakshman (Mon Sep 9 20:23:36 1996 IST):

SAANDO: LET ME ASSURE YOU THAT MR V P SINGH IS IN THE REDIFF ON THE NET OFFICE ANSWERING YOUR QUESTIONS. I AM SURE YOU HAVE A LOT TO ASK, SO WHY DON'T YOU GO RIGHT AHEAD AND ASK THEM? THANKS FOR LOGGING IN.

M. Khan (Mon Sep 9 20:23:44 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh, is BJP your number one enemy as you have taken support from corrupt congress, why are the govt. not taking any action against Lalloo in Bohar in Hubandary case. Let us not play politics of caste, help all Hindu, Dalit, Muslim. You politician play dirty games, it is not BJP but castiest politics of Yadav, Kanshi Ram that will divide India.

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:24:31 1996 IST):

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:24:40 1996 IST):

Perhaps the moment is ripe now for someone to begin a new party based on a Mr Clean kind of philosophy. Why don't you take that on?

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 20:24:43 1996 IST):

B Subramaniam: I am grateful for your change of heart. I believe that much of the corruption and degeneration that has come can be fought against by people outside the political system because I have not much faith that the political system all alone can take on this problem. And in this, it is the youth like you who have a burning desire for a better India, who can really transform things in the country.

saando (Mon Sep 9 20:24:52 1996 IST):

I asked this question as i was closely associated with one of your sons.

Alex Bradley (Mon Sep 9 20:26:03 1996 IST):

What about the reforms? To some extent you commenced the process as Rajiv Gandhi's finance minister? Would you agree with the thrust Dr Manmohan Singh gave it? Do you think the reforms can be reversed? And can they ever benefit the vast majority of our people?

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:27:32 1996 IST):

Sanjiv Shah (Mon Sep 9 20:27:51 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: Are you ready today to tell all what you know about Bofors? We the people of India have waited very long to hear your answer? Sir, Remember that was our money, Taxpayers money. I hope at this point you would not fear anyone.

B Subramaniam (Mon Sep 9 20:27:52 1996 IST):

How can the forces of communalism be reversed? Do you think the Ayodhya issue can ever become a major issue again? Do you think Mr Rao was an accomplice with the BJP in the demolition?

Ravi (Mon Sep 9 20:27:52 1996 IST):

Good evening, Mr Singh! It's rather overwhelming to have this opportunity of chatting with you directly.

doles (Mon Sep 9 20:27:57 1996 IST):

Who according to you ,should the youth of today look up to? Is there any 'hero' for them to emulate?

Sunita (Mon Sep 9 20:28:18 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh, as expected many people are asking the very same question that I wish to. At one point of time you were very close to Rajiv Gandhi, the Gandhi family in general. What soured the realtionship? And if it is Bofors which many people are asking you already about, what happened to your promises of disclosing the names of the people invloved in the scam??

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:28:33 1996 IST):

Alex Bradley (Mon Sep 9 20:28:51 1996 IST):

Why is the Janata Dal such a fragmented political entity? Why do the Laloo Yadavs of the world behave the way they do? How long do you give this govt? And what will pull it down?

Saroj Kumari (Mon Sep 9 20:28:57 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh, your record as PM of India is the worst as you recreated caste system, by implementing Mandal you killed innocent young men, do not call BJP communal, it is all of you in Janta Dal, UF playing the race card. Please leave the politics and take sanays

Abhijit Dey from Bangkok (Mon Sep 9 20:29:25 1996 IST):

Dear Mr. V.P.Singh, Don't you feel sad to see other countries in Asia, have prospered under the leadership of the political leaders like Dr. Mahatir Mohammad in Indonesia etc., to name only few, why Indian Politicians can not forget their petty differences for at least one year and try to do what they know the best for the country. Do not you feel guilty that destiny gave you chance to rule the country which you threw away for personal whims. We have heard slogans for years what we need is excellence in politicians who can deliver results.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 20:29:29 1996 IST):

Karl: The simple fact is the BJP got the opportunity to form the government, but failed to get a majority in the House, while the United Front government proved its majority on the floor of the House. If democracy is anything, certainly it is something to do with majority in the House. The Parliament is the expression of the will of the people, and the will of the people as expressed in Parliament, was that more than 300 members were against the BJP, while the BJP had the support of less than 200 members. The imposition of a minority would have been a reversal of democracy.

B Subramaniam (Mon Sep 9 20:29:30 1996 IST):

There is a feeling that a BJP victory in Up will destrpy the UF govt? Do you agree, Sir?

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:29:48 1996 IST):

Mr Singh, why must your political stance revolve only around Mandal and such like. Why don't you think about carving a new destiny for India. If anybody can do that you can because you seem more idealistic than most. Don't you think we have had enough of Mandal and all. Pls take up a new cause and a more worthy cause. The legacy that you should leave for India should be an alternate political choice. Pls answer.

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:29:59 1996 IST):

Ravi (Mon Sep 9 20:30:09 1996 IST):

Do you think the Indian democracy is mature enough for a coalition government? Particularly in a scene where the support only comes from vested interests. And when the rug in promptly pulled out from under the ruling party whenever it suits the supporting party?

Mahadevan Ramaswamy (Mon Sep 9 20:30:43 1996 IST):

Dear Sir, Soon CTBT will be going to the UN. Once it is signed by the majority, even if India does not sign it, our hands will be tied with respect to Nuclear weapons. India has earlier put forward the suggestion of complete Nuclear disarmament. But this is not going to happen now and the big five are going to keep their weapons. With the stress on the economic interest being reinforced with the power of weapons (eg. US attack on Iraq) don't you think that India should go ahead and explode a bomb soon rather than wait had have our hands tied by the Australian sponsored CTBT. I feel that in future the nuclear haves will have an indirect way of colonising the countries!

Mera Bharat Mahan (Mon Sep 9 20:31:24 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: Your anser to this question is very crucial , because you must have had enough time to have contemplated on this question. Do you see anyway in which the Kashmir issue can be resolved? Pakistan has been emerging as an increasing threat to India. How should they be tackled?

V.KHURANA (Mon Sep 9 20:31:30 1996 IST):

ITS ALREADY BEEN 30 MINS SINCE THIS NET CHAT STARTED, BUT WE HAVE YET TO RCV A REPLY FM MR SINGH ? WHEN WILL THE REPLIES COME ??

Sanjiv Shah (Mon Sep 9 20:31:35 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh: Please answer my question regarding Bofors. After all You have a title of Raja? Why seek title of Lier?

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:31:59 1996 IST):

V.S.Joshi (Mon Sep 9 20:32:01 1996 IST):

Mr Singh, Are you likely to visit U.S (east coast) in the near future. Would like to meet you personally.

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:32:06 1996 IST):

Sunita (Mon Sep 9 20:33:01 1996 IST):

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:33:17 1996 IST):

Nikhil Lakshman (Mon Sep 9 20:33:41 1996 IST):

MR KHURANA, MR SINGH HAS ALREADY ANSWERED SOME QUESTIONS.

doles (Mon Sep 9 20:35:40 1996 IST):

We read that you have taken up painting now. Which of the great masters do you enjoy most? What are the topics of your paintings?

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:37:18 1996 IST):

Mr Singh how are you? How is your health?

V.S.Joshi (Mon Sep 9 20:37:33 1996 IST):

SIR,Your role in the Kini case was commendable(your meeting with Shila Kini etc. )What plans do you have to ensure that the lady receives justice. Would you be exerting any pressure on the PM on this issue.

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:37:44 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh! Please answer my previous questions. Do you have anything for "Bihar Animal Husbandary & Fodder Scam"? What about names of persons of getting kickbacks in "Bofors" as you promised in 1988 ? And last, You people were by-cotting parliament against Rao govt before elections but you people don't feel any guilty feeling to take support from same Rao's congress. JD having 40 seats in hand tells that BJP with 200 seats is not having majority. This statement seems really funny. It sounds like that as per your theory people who fought against each other before elections, can join hands to form govt an to enjoy fruits of power after election?

saando (Mon Sep 9 20:38:02 1996 IST):

IT SEEMS TO MR SINGH (OR HIS PROXY) HAS ALREADY ANSWERED SOME QUESTIONS

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 20:38:46 1996 IST):

The Bofors questions: During our tenure of 11 months, we could succeed in two courts of Switzerland for obtaining the bank papers, we could freeze six accounts, which are frozen even today. When the highest court in Switzerland has upheld that illegal payments were made, and as of today, the government of India posses the information as to how much bribe was paid and in whose account and on what date. So while earlier it was only an allegation and the Congress denied that there was no corruption now there is a court's endorsement that unlawful money was passed in the Bofors deal, and specific names of the accounts are known. Consider that this we got in six months only because for two months we were preparing, and for four months there was a stay order in our courts. Later the Congress government put a cover on the whole matter which is well known. Their success in concealment was not my failure in the positive achievements that were made to get the above vital information. We had also blaclised the Bofors company, and they had indicated that they would be ready to furnish names, but by then our government fell.

Dev Rao (Mon Sep 9 20:38:50 1996 IST):

Mr. VP why have you joined hands with corrupt Congress, just to dethrone BJP, people had given them the mandate to rule though low percentage of votes but you are solely responsible for encouraging caste based politics in India. Do you like to abolish all upper caste hindus? Please leave the political scene and take care of your health and take Narsima rao the biggest corrupt politican with you.

Alex Bradley (Mon Sep 9 20:39:21 1996 IST):

It amazes me that so many people remain hostile to you. To what do you attribute this hostility to?

V.KHURANA (Mon Sep 9 20:39:33 1996 IST):

SORRY,BUT I CAN'T SEE ANY ANSWERS FM MR SINGH ??

V.KHURANA (Mon Sep 9 20:39:45 1996 IST):

SORRY,BUT I CAN'T SEE ANY ANSWERS FM MR SINGH ??

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:41:41 1996 IST):

Mahadevan Ramaswamy (Mon Sep 9 20:41:42 1996 IST):

Dear Sir, Many of the political outfits as a matter of fact are thriving on caste based politics. Eg. Samjwadi Party, BSP. There also parties like Muslim League, Kerala Congress, which are essentially Muslim and Christian communal parties. Even communists(for that matter) all parties irrespective of their proclaimed philosohy, put up contestants with caste factor in mind. Then why single out BJP as non secular. Do you consider caste based politics and minirity based communalism as secular? I had high regard for you when you took on the Bofors issue. But now, I am sorry. But still as a former prime minister i respect you. I feel that especially in the area of science and technology, medicine etc. merit should not be sacrificed for the case of caste. Any one including you will dread to be treated by a doctor who has solely come up on the basis of reservation. Earlier, assertion was that even these people have come up after passing the common exams. But recently we have seen at many places in order to fill the positions, even that merit has been diluted. I firmly beleive that in order to build a country, it should promote the best person irrespective of case, religion and in if required try to borrow the best brains from even the enemy as long as we make sure that the security is not compramised.

saando (Mon Sep 9 20:41:46 1996 IST):

PRECISELY KHURANA SAHEB LAKSHMANAN JOOTH BOLTHA HAI JARA JARA

B Subramaniam (Mon Sep 9 20:42:03 1996 IST):

Khuranaji, can't you see Mr Singh's responses?!

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:42:55 1996 IST):

I am interested in knowing how your health is. Because you seem to be a man full of energy and India needs somebody like you to apply your mind to a different future for India. Forget all those questions on stale topics like caste etc. Tell us what you could plan for India's future and then we would certainly vote for you. TELL US SOMETHING NEW. Give us some good news and some hope. Suggest a more rosy political scenario for India. We need alternate politics. That is what India needs. Please, please reply to this question.

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:45:08 1996 IST):

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 20:45:12 1996 IST):

Mera Bharat Mahaan: Thank you for this mahaan question. I think today there is a time-window for the solution of Kashmir issue. My assessment during my visit to Srinagar that the people there are totally fed up with violence. Two, while many of them are still alienated from India, they are totally disillusioned with Pakistan on the ground that Pakistan will use us only as pawns but will never really come forward to help us. At the same time, they have also realised that the Indian state is too powerful to be dislodged. Therefore, I think an honourable solution, within the parameters of the dignity of the Kashmiri people and the sovereignty of India, can be arrived at.

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:45:43 1996 IST):

You said that gvt. of india possess names and accounts of persons getting kickbacks in "Bofors" - Why your JD govt. is not revealing it ? Why you are not starting a crusade again against this ? Does support of congress in Parliament stopping you people to reveal the names ?

Raj Kumar (Mon Sep 9 20:46:00 1996 IST):

Sir, you have not answered any Mandal related question, how come. You are against BJP but are embracing the corrupt congress party, howcome? Do not tell us about communalism etc,. we know all political party playing this game for votes. Sir, UP elections are caste based now thanks to you, why are u seeking Mulim League support, are they your brothers and Hindus (BJP) not.. You guys are disgust to Indian politics.

V.KHURANA (Mon Sep 9 20:46:29 1996 IST):

YES FOLKS - I CAN FINALLY SEE VP'S RESPONSES ! "DAER AIYE LIKEN DURUST AYE"

Rajiv (Mon Sep 9 20:47:18 1996 IST):

saando: is there sand in your eyes or can't you read?????*very curiou indeed!!!hmmmmm:-)

Abhijit Dey from Bangkok (Mon Sep 9 20:47:35 1996 IST):

Dear Mr. V.P.Singh, If you wanted a stable government in 1989, then how could you think that you could play tricks in keeping Mr. Chandrasekhar Out of the PM Post. It was obvious the way, you were selected as PM that your coalition will not stay in Power in long. You are talking of Social Unjustice. If you are really beleive your reservations is going to help them any way, why you first did not give them more than 50% reservations in the Parliaments and Cabinet. You are talking of Social Unjustice, everyone knows the Women of all Social Strata are the most repressed class, but your real intention was to create vote bank for you. Does Merit means anything to you. Have ever got any positions by competing for them on the basis of Competion. We only know of Mr. Subhas Chandra Bose who stood 4th in ICS exam then he left that to join the politics for his principles. What I mean you politicans are coming to politics because you do not have anything else to do. Very few of you had any bright future in any other career based on your merits. I know that you are very sick now, will you allow a Doctor to treat you on the basis of his Caste or his merit. Then how can you let the country be ruled on the basis of Caste not on basis of merit. I know many people from the backware caste who do not take the benefit of reservations and they compete in the general quota. You can not make the present generation pay for what their great grand parents did. If you are right in instigating the Caste Politics for historically caste imbalance then in the same arguments BJP can feel to be correct in trying to correct the historical aggressions and rule done by minorities over the majorities. You at least should agree to your self you are the person who propelled BJP to the position where it is now. Please at least do not lie to yourself.

V.S.Joshi (Mon Sep 9 20:48:25 1996 IST):

We understand you are quite close to LALLOO YADAV. How can you identify with a person like him who is corrupt.Your opinion about Chandrashekhar and Hegde ?

Mahadevan Ramaswamy (Mon Sep 9 20:48:51 1996 IST):

Mr. sing, you started you rise to the political career as Mr. Clean ( I really believed you at that time). But now you seem to be quite silent on the Bihar Animal Husbandary Scam, and go slow on the various scams against the Rao govt. by the present Govt. The CBI seems to be invovled in a delaying tactics whether it be Urea, JMM (in carge sheeting Rao), or getting Sukh Ram from London. why are you silent. Didyou attitude to honesty change after the taste of power!

Alex Bradley (Mon Sep 9 20:49:19 1996 IST):

The reforms...Do you agree with the form Dr Singh gave them?

B Subramaniam (Mon Sep 9 20:50:34 1996 IST):

Rajasaab, I hope you are enjoying yourself. These Chats can be a lot of fun. Too many questions though. I am sure you will answer mine.

Sanjiv (Mon Sep 9 20:50:43 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: The ultimate question in everyone's mind is specifically "What do you know about Bofors?" Even if you consider that as mere allegation, Let it be. Tell us frankly what you know?

saando (Mon Sep 9 20:51:04 1996 IST):

DEAR MR a. DEY mR SINGH DOESNT NEED ANY DOCTOR FROM BACKWARD CLASSES TO TREAT HIM HIS SON IS AN iNTERNIST

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 20:51:04 1996 IST):

Vivek: Well, there is some problem in my physical health, but my mental health is okay. I am not pessimistic about India's future, while there are many things to be angry about, but it is such anger of yours that is the hope also, because it provides the steam for change. So the vision of India, I would visualise India having its place of respect in the comity of nations, and that can come only by making India strong in various fields of economy, of diplomacy and defence. Within the country, it's fraternal India which is not ridden by emotional divides, is my dream.

Bhajan Malhotra (Mon Sep 9 20:51:21 1996 IST):

Sir, I lived in Jammu, J & K state, it is painful to learn that you guys are bent on giving Kasmir full autonomy for the sake of muslim votes, this way you will encourage other states like Panjab to demand full autonomy too. Please do not give anybody special status , all is part of India. I support BJP's uniform code, why should Muslim obey their holy book and not constitution of India. When they are in USA they have to live by the rules of this country?

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:52:00 1996 IST):

Sir! You are not answering my questions ? Tell me one more thing that How your regime as UP Chief Minister ( when lot of socially backward people were killed by the police in the name of false encounters with dacoits) fits to your image of 'Massiah of Mandal"?

Nidhi Sharma (Mon Sep 9 20:52:15 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: Will you justify the expulsion of Ram Krishna Hegde from Janata Dal?

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:53:16 1996 IST):

Saando, you are a major show off. ANd apart from being a show off you you are a rather untrusting character

Sanjiv (Mon Sep 9 20:54:08 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: Your honest predictions regarding life of Deve Gowada's Government? You know it better. You have been in the similar situation before. Please answer.

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:55:14 1996 IST):

Sir, you went to London for eye-operation, but as a "Massiah of Mandal" you should go to a doctor (who got benefit of Mandal policy)? Are these doctors only for the poor, backward public of India, not for you and other leaders?

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:55:41 1996 IST):

Thank you SInghji for your answer. I am sorry that others are being so rude. I like what you wrote although maybe you said it in a hurry. Now why don't you shelve all this caste stuff etc and put your money where your mouth is and start campaigning for such an India. Would be very garteful. I hope that your physical health improves too.

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:56:11 1996 IST):

saando (Mon Sep 9 20:56:29 1996 IST):

TRUE VIVEK I DONT TRUST POLITICIANS BUT HOW ARE U SURE THIS MR VP SINGH

doles (Mon Sep 9 20:56:46 1996 IST):

We would appreciate more answers Sir.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 20:56:58 1996 IST):

Alex Bradley: Well, a sort of national consensus on reforms has emerged and India is finding a synthesis between the global challenge of economic integration and the internal challenge of poverty and unemployment. While we have to accept the international challenge and modernise and become competitive, at the same time new opportunities for open regarding employment, education, and a better life. On foreign investments, in the area of infrastructure, there seems to be no serious objections within the country. However, regarding the consumer items there is a debate whether they should be priortisation in it or not. What Dr Manmohan Singh did, I would add that emphasis on the agricultural sector and agro industries should be there, along with the conscious effort to improve the skills within the country and also provide a social safety net for displaced labour.

V.S.Joshi (Mon Sep 9 20:57:17 1996 IST):

Sir, Shouldn't uniform civil code be a demand of all the parties. Don't you think that people living in one country should have law, and those who don't believe in it should leave the country IRRESPECTIVE OF WHETHER THEY ARE HINDUS OR MUSLIMS.

Arthur J Sikes (Mon Sep 9 20:57:58 1996 IST):

When you look back on your career, is there a sense of fulfilment? Are you satisfied with what you have achieved? Would those ten months as prime minister be the apogee of your career? Do you wish you had more time to change the way India existed? Do you think the hostility of so many people was worth all this?

doles (Mon Sep 9 20:58:14 1996 IST):

Saando, This IS the real thing man,Why are you such a doubting Thomas?

Sanjay Bhat (Mon Sep 9 20:58:42 1996 IST):

Sir, howcome 40 odd MPs of your JD rule India and not 200 odd BJP alliance, the regional parties have too much power thus weaking the center. Is the central govt. going to take any action against Lallo in Husbandary, why the govt. not speeding action against corrupt Narsima rao and his kins. You should not divide India along caste lines anymore as you done when you were PM. BJP men have clean character and you are trying to taint them for the sake of votes, howcome. Now as BJP has put Hindu card in the back burner, will you try to seek their coalition to make Bharat great. I hope the politician shed the communal lines. How about Sukh ram, how much money he gave to Rao?

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 20:59:18 1996 IST):

Nitya (Mon Sep 9 20:59:24 1996 IST):

Saando: why don't you stop being so questioning and ask some questions to Mr Singh instead? Its not every day we get to talk to a man of his stature.

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 20:59:44 1996 IST):

Now why don't you takeover from where the esteemed Mr Manmohan Singh left off. Lure him to your party and begin politics that only concentrates on building a better India. What do you say? We need positive things. Don't bother fencing all these smart questions and tell us more about a new political manifesto for India. Best regards.

Sanjiv (Mon Sep 9 21:00:26 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: You told moment ago that you learned a lesson by accepting a support from communal party (BJP). What is your reaction to Gowda-Thakrey meeting and support proposal? If honesty prevails you should lash out at UF government for diverting against the very same principle that you believe and that they believed when they came to the power

B Subramaniam (Mon Sep 9 21:00:42 1996 IST):

Rajasaab, where do you see Indian politics evolving in 2000? Do you see the BJP consolidating itself with the public disllusionment with centrist forces? What solution do you see for centriust parties? How can they revive themselves?

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 21:01:17 1996 IST):

karan (Mon Sep 9 21:01:42 1996 IST):

Karan Jethwani. Mr.Singh....It's Finally hapenning..Now I believe the law is for politicians too.how long do you tink it will take for lawmakers to take law seriously

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:03:02 1996 IST):

Sanjiv: The minimum life of the Deve Gowda government is guaranteed till the Congress feels that an election is going to hurt it more. Till then it wil be its interest to sustain the Gowda government. About the maximum life, it will depend on how well policy matters are coordinated among the ruling partners, also the conflict management that is there between the regional parties in Assam, West Bengal, Karnataka, Kerala, with the Congress; and lastly the stability of the Janata Dal itself.

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 21:03:16 1996 IST):

V.KHURANA (Mon Sep 9 21:04:02 1996 IST):

MR SINGH - WE LIVE ABROAD, BUT WHATEVER ARE THE SHORTCOMINGS THAT INDIA HAS, WE STILL TRY OUR BEST TO CONVEY TO OUR SMALL CHILDREN THE BEST OF INDIA, SO THAT THEY LOVE THEIR COUNTRY. BUT FRANKLY IT IS A DIFFICULT BATTLE, CONSIDERING EVERY NOW OR THEN WE HEAR OF SOME MAJOR DEBACLE OR THE EITHER - EITHER IT IS OUR FAILURE IN OLYMPICS OR IT IS PEOPLE LIKE SUKH RAM. CAN U PLS GV ME SOME ADVICE ON HOW TO CONVINCE OUR CHILDREN THAT INDIA IS THE BEST FOR THEM TO GROW UP IN ?? THANKS - I WILL SHOW YOUR REPLY TO MY SEVEN YEARS OLD GIRL WHEN SHE WAKES UP IN THE MORNING !

saando (Mon Sep 9 21:04:25 1996 IST):

V.S.Joshi (Mon Sep 9 21:04:34 1996 IST):

Mr. Bhajan Malhotra, Don't get confused between Kashmir and Punjab. Kashmir's history is differnt from that of Punjab. When Kashmir joined with India it was decided that their final annexion would be decided by a plebiscite, in fact Pandit Nehru insisted on this. However till date there has been no plebiscite. Kashmiris might have a point. People like you and me must study their history to understand their aspirations.

doles (Mon Sep 9 21:06:01 1996 IST):

What can be done to assuage the feelings of those whose lives were destroyed during the Ayodhha affair & Bombay riots?

Piyush (Mon Sep 9 21:06:08 1996 IST):

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:07:08 1996 IST):

B Subramaniam: By AD 2000, Indian politics would have emerged from its present transitional period and there would be a period of stabilty. The present flux in Indian politics is because of the various social sections are in search of new alignments, and have not yet come to an equilibrium. By then, more lasting relationships would have emerged and a synthesis of the various social tensions would have been arrived at. As for the BJP, I visualise a split at the national level by then, because the Mandal forces within the BJP will bid for prime leadership roles which will not be acceptable to the present leadership of the BJP. The process has started in the state-level in Gujarat.

Vishal (Mon Sep 9 21:08:00 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh, How do you see the present condition of Indian politics? The recent rule of Mr. Rao has given rise to so many scandals that were never heard of in Indian politics. Still the present govt of Janta Dal is running on its support. Don't you think that it is unethical for JD to go for such support?

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:09:34 1996 IST):

V Khurana: I am really touched by your concern for the country. Well, if there is Sukh Ram, there is Anand Vishwanathan also. The country has survived a lot of challenges in the past, and I am sure the younger generation will do a lot better. My best wishes to your daughter.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:10:07 1996 IST):

Doles: Impartial justice

Latif Ehsan (Mon Sep 9 21:10:48 1996 IST):

Sir, You are a influencial person in the government though you are not holding any formal position. What do you think about Indo-Bangladesh relationship? Are you aware of the problems relating Ganges water. We Bangladeshi people suffer a lot for water. Can you do something for us?

Sanjay (Mon Sep 9 21:11:08 1996 IST):

Sir, you must feel sorry by accepting online chat forum, so many people against your poilicies, you can fool illtrate lot of voters but not educated one, you fellows have been successful in spreading communal feelings against a fine party like BJP , I hope people of India wake up and vote for a national party not a regional rag tag. Shame on your castiest politics, you have disciples like paswan, laloo, mulayam, kanshi who will follow your tradition of caste. Gowda is a pimp of congress, no doubt and it is rao who is ruling India.

V.S.Joshi (Mon Sep 9 21:12:00 1996 IST):

Mr. V.P.Singh, Sir, your views on Uniform civil code , please , please , please.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:12:21 1996 IST):

Vishal: The support is from the Congress party. Scandals are the doings of individual persons. While support from the party may be taken, the people responsible for scandals should be punished. I agree with you that the present government has to stand up by this test.

doles (Mon Sep 9 21:12:31 1996 IST):

Who will ensure that impartial justice will finally come to them? In a political system where "justice" seems to be a sick word?

Abhijit Dey from Bangkok (Mon Sep 9 21:13:45 1996 IST):

Dear Mr. V.P. Singh, If you are a fair person please respond to my comments. I am still awaiting your response. I am an ordinary Indian asking question to an ex PM whom I also admired once. People can only hate the person most whom they have loved you. We do not hate you as person, but we are just questioning your certain actions which created your downfall, and you could not deliver. People of India have always looked for an alternative to Congress but the Alternative had always bent on committing political harakiry, as if they like to be in oppositions only. It is out of that frustrations we direct our anger at you. Most of us do not know you personally, but when you did good things we praised you. If you could accept out flowers why are you reluctanct to accept our brick bats. What I am watching is you are only responding to the persons who are not asking you controversial questions. If you want to avoid answering such questions that is absolutely ok with me, because that is your prerogative. But please do ponder about our letters in private . We still have lots of faith in you. Please could you also say why it is not possible to combat corruptions. By making it mandatory for all the high ranking public officals including politicians to declare the assets before assuming any public office and to be monitored for the accumulation of wealth in excess of known income. I think there is a lack of political will. Regards

Sanjiv (Mon Sep 9 21:15:02 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: Thank You for answering one of my question, but I have noted you avoided the tough ones. Any way, I strongly feel that these tough (may be rude to some) questions were necessary for you to get the message from real people and not from chamchas sorrounding you. We have lot to do for India. I would seek your support to do better things for India. Please If you believe stick by your principles and fairly implement on everyone. Remember favourtism is not good politics. May be you wont be affected by your policies but there are thousands of children who are denied admissions on merit. When you talk about United States, remember no one is denied admission to their colleges in United States. Rethink of it when you get time. Again Thank You for your time

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 21:15:40 1996 IST):

Singhji, who is your favourite political hero? Pls do not say Mahatma Gandhi.ferably not

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:16:11 1996 IST):

Latif Ehsan: We have a lot to gain by friendly relationships. We open the dialogue with Bangladesh, when the National Front government was formed in 1989. We had come to a better understanding of the water issue, and also could lay the foundation for the resolution of the Tin Bigha problem. Presently, Mr Gujral is in Bangladesh, and I hear positive results of his visit. I am sure that the highest priority is being given by the present government to its neighbours, and apart from the water issue, I think India should unilaterally open up its markets to its neighbours on concessional terms.

Amrit Patel (Mon Sep 9 21:18:52 1996 IST):

Sir, why are you meddling in other parties internal affairs by predicting split in BJP, you fellows are responsible for engineering this split , we do not understand why all politicians like to see weak state govt and always try to dislodge them. You guys should spend your energy in strengtening the states thus country and not predicting splits here and there. Shame on you VP for Manadal, you are messiah of Muslimms and dalits you think but people know differnt. Leave all the state govt. in tact and let people decide at the polls when the term expires.

doles (Mon Sep 9 21:19:18 1996 IST):

What message or words of wisdom would you give our young ones of today who will be the future of tomorrow?

Deepak Agrawal (Mon Sep 9 21:20:19 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh: What is your opinion on corruption in politics? No matter what party, many politicilans, including several of your friends, are known to have swindled crores of nation's money. Where is corruption on your agenda? How much and what are you doing to address this immense problem. Does it matter to you, how much, and why?

Abhijit Dey from Bangkok (Mon Sep 9 21:20:26 1996 IST):

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:20:29 1996 IST):

Abhijit Dey: I have already answered about Mandal at the beginning of the Chat. Your concern regarding corruption is very encouraging. I fully agree with your suggestion of declaration of assets by the members of Parliament, legislatures, and by high officials. Further to fight corruption, the Officials Secrets Act should be amended so that officials and ministers cannot hide their deeds behind the Officials Secrets Act. The Lok Pal should be appointed by the judiciary, and the Lok Pal should have its own investigating branch to probe corruption in high places. The Anti-Defection law should be so amended that if anyone changes his party, he should seek re-election.

V.KHURANA (Mon Sep 9 21:20:51 1996 IST):

MR SINGH AND OUR OTHER FRIENDS ON THIS NET CHAT - MANY THANKS.AM SIGNING OFF NOW. GOOD BYE

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:22:28 1996 IST):

Vivek: It is very difficult for a political person to have another political hero.

saando (Mon Sep 9 21:24:20 1996 IST):

DEAR N LAKSHMANAN THANKS FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO LOG IN. I AM A DOUBTING THOMAS BUT THE "REAL VPS" NEVER ANSWERED ANY QUESTION ON MANDALIZATION. IF IT WAS MR SINGH MY REGARDS

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:24:33 1996 IST):

Doles: The youth provides the question marks to society. The day it stops questioning, its role as youth ceases. So my message is: never be quiet, always question what your heart does not accept.

Kamal Paul (Mon Sep 9 21:25:19 1996 IST):

Lat one! Mr. VP Singh was the castiest of all politicians, I do not know why rediff brought him online. He destroyed India's political fabric by implementing Mandal. Now these guys are licking Congress's feet to stay in power. They are the communal forces not BJP, in my opinion.

Sreeshylam (Mon Sep 9 21:25:20 1996 IST):

Sir, What is your opinion about increasing reservation upto 100% for minorities ? Will it increase Indian growth in terms of quality ?

Piyush again (Mon Sep 9 21:25:30 1996 IST):

To sum up, Mr. Singh! you didn't answer my any of the following questions : (For reasons known to you) 1. Support of Corrupt congress for your Govt. 2. Silence of 'Super honest' VP Singh on Scams of Bihar Govt. 3. Silence of JD govt. for not revealing names of persons related to "Bofors" , though you said just now that govt. of INDIA knows all info. 4. Why "Mandal Massiah" opted for eye-operation in London , not from any other Indian Doctor (including persons benefitted by Mandal) ? Do these doctors are only for poor, backward people of INDIA not for leaders like you.

Kirtida (Mon Sep 9 21:30:51 1996 IST):

Sir, you call a fine party like BJP a communal, does this category apply to Akali Dal in Panjab, Muslim League and why not BSP who plays backward class politics and Lallo Chor Yadav and Paswan thug, do not divide us along caste lines, make everyone dalit and that will coool your raciest heart.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:31:10 1996 IST):

V S Joshi: Law is the final crystallisation of a social process. So changes should be preceded by social consciousness, and a real desire for change and legislation. Then consider that the concept of uniform civil code should be defined more clearly. For instance, in Kerala, in some sections matriarchally system is practised, and the inheritance is through the daughter. Will we make everything uniform and deprive the women of their rights there or will women all over India get this right to make it uniform? In tribal belts, husbands have legal rights to beat up their wives, it is not an offence, why do we not make these changes? Only because we think the time is not ripe, we have to carry everyone. We allow in taxation certain exemptions to the Hindu Undivided Family on the basis of religion. But it is no one's case to amend it, because it is more sagacious not to hurt the feelings of a such a wide section of society. Then such a consideration should be applicable to all sections of society.

Sanjiv (Mon Sep 9 21:31:41 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: I know all know that in a short time you cannot answer everyone but atleast take a transcript of all these questions and suggestions with you when you sign off and ask yourself one question "Have I done a right thing for India?" Also take these questions and suggestions as a future path for your carrer. Remember once you are in politics it is your utmost responsibility to follow a wish of majority of affected people.

Parliament (Mon Sep 9 21:32:39 1996 IST):

Abhijit, Are you from RECT? I graduated 1979. I am in Los Angeles. Are you with SUN, Thailand? Nice to meet on the Net.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:33:44 1996 IST):

Sreeshylam: Kindly consider that even the BJP has endorsed the Mandal Commission report which provides reservations for minorities on the basis of educational and social backwardness. Could the BJP answer about the quality?

Vishwas (Mon Sep 9 21:35:43 1996 IST):

Hi! Mr. V.P. Singh. You were once the hero of a lot of young guys in Bombay where i was studying at that time. You kicked butt at that time. but your mistake of invoking the mandal ghost was a horrible idea. i would like like to know if you have changed your views on the issue of reservation after getting to think about it all these years. i believe you are an honest man and can do a lot of good for our country. another question i had was: what do you think of the way the governemnt structure is set up in India. after seeing the way government runs inthe US, i feel that it would be better if we had a federal sort of system where power is not concentrated in a few people's hands as it is in india. do you think the states should be given more freedom from the central govt.

Piyu (Mon Sep 9 21:36:13 1996 IST):

This is piyush again. I was a great admirer of your's , when you started your crusade against in 1988. But, by the years many of your deeds made me a bitter critic of yours. You avoided all my questions, which were raised by many others also. You can avoid these questions now, but one day every leader of India will be answerable to people of India. I hope that we should get this opportunity very soon. My questions were : 1. Silence on 'Fodder Scam' and other Scams of Bihar from your side ? 2. Moral behind taking support from corrupt congress for JD govt ?

doles (Mon Sep 9 21:37:10 1996 IST):

Do you think CLEAN POLITICS will ever come to us?

Piyu (Mon Sep 9 21:38:19 1996 IST):

Mahmood Awan (Mon Sep 9 21:38:20 1996 IST):

Sir, I am sorry our people did not come to your rescue on the net, we revere you as our messiah who will protect us from these upper caste hindus, i wish you were born a muslim. I have one question, why are you taking support from corrupt rao and his party. Why do not you create own party that will lead muslims and dalits. Let us keep on dividing on race lines , see 14% minority is actually ruling India. Allah will reserve a special place for you ion heaven.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:38:58 1996 IST):

Vishwas: The recent trends in politics do show that the various regional forces are emerging in their own right, and the most heartening thing is that instead of being confined to the region only, they are managing national affairs. This is really what federalism is, to find unity in diversity. I think more and more the federal nature of our Constitution will be realised on the ground in the future.

Sanjiv (Mon Sep 9 21:38:59 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: Your comments on Gowda-Thakrey meeting

Parliament (Mon Sep 9 21:39:26 1996 IST):

Mr. V.P. Singh, Is Ayodhya a closed episode? Secondly, what will you execute to free Kashmir hostages, were you the PM now?

Abhijit Dey from Bangkok (Mon Sep 9 21:40:13 1996 IST):

Dear Mr. V.P. Singh, Thank you for answering my questions. I am very happy to have shared my feelings with you. I wish you a long life and a second oppurtunity as PM of India. I would like to know your opinions about improving the relations of India with its Neighbors. None of the neighbors are happy with India. For the Indian people living in neighboring countries, they bear the brunt of their anger. What was the reason of Indo-Nepal Trade and Transit Conflict in 1989. Was it a diplomatic decisons or personal one. As the gossip goes that the trade dispute was due to not allowing the Mrs. Sonia Gandhi to visit the Pashupati Nath Temple. Is it true ?

doles (Mon Sep 9 21:40:17 1996 IST):

Mr Singh, How does it feel to be on chat? Don't you think that if more politicians get a chance to talk to the people,it would be good?

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:40:45 1996 IST):

Piyush: There should be no compromise with corruption cases in Bihar or any other place.

Sanjiv (Mon Sep 9 21:40:58 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: As a politician how many faces do you have?

Piyu (Mon Sep 9 21:42:01 1996 IST):

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 21:42:23 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: Can you explain the expulsion of Mr R K Hegde from Janta Dal?

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:43:16 1996 IST):

parliament: Ayodhya issue is not closed. The best way is to respect the court judgement regarding it. Regarding the Kashmir hostages, all efforts have to be made to free them, and I believe the government of India and other governments did make sincere efforts and are continuing with their efforts.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:44:10 1996 IST):

Sanjiv: As many faces as you see!

Sanjiv (Mon Sep 9 21:44:22 1996 IST):

mr Singh: After 100 days of Gowda government do you feel that it was right decision to stay away from the position of primeminister? if so why? give other than your health reasons. Also comment on Gowda-Thakrey meeting.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:45:36 1996 IST):

Vivek: Hegde's expulsion is an internal matter of the Janata Dal.

Romesh Arora (Mon Sep 9 21:45:47 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh these upper caste are saying you were born to a muslim family , is it true? how can you and JD justify ruling India with 44 MPs, is it true that Rao is actually ruling India, how come no decision can be taken without him. Gowda is a puppet in rao's hands. When will we get a true democratic govt. Will you leave the politics or still spread cancer of caste. Your party is more commnal than BJP, Shiv Sena etc. Is your heart fell good by dividing us along castes.

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 21:46:25 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: Are you planning to paint Madhuri Dixit like the old man M F Hussain, if not which Indian heroine?

doles (Mon Sep 9 21:47:14 1996 IST):

Thank you for chatting with us. We wish you a long happy & healthy life and many more years of public life. Goodnight

latif Ehsan (Mon Sep 9 21:47:26 1996 IST):

Sir,Thanks for answering my question. I have another question. During your short period of Prime Ministership you fought to establish the right of low caste people. Are you fully satisfied with the result? I think you are not. You had another chance to become Prime minister. Why did not you take this opportunity? At least you can do something for low caste people. Do you think that it is very difficult to achieve your aim given the social structure of India? Is it a reason of your not taking Prime Ministership?

Vivek (Mon Sep 9 21:47:54 1996 IST):

Mr Singh: If you join politics from where will you contest election?

Abhijit Dey from Bangkok (Mon Sep 9 21:48:39 1996 IST):

Dear Parliament, Yes, I am from RECT. Hello, to all the RECTIANS. You can send me email at abhijit@rccsun.ait.ac.th. Nice to see you. Do you know Mr. B.K.Prabhakar from RECT who graduted from EEE in 1985. He was from Tirupati. Presently I am working at Asian Institute of Technology after doing my Masters in Computer Science. Please feel in about yourself.

Arvind Rajpal (Mon Sep 9 21:48:41 1996 IST):

mr. singh, who according to you would be the 'best' PM for India

Vishwas (Mon Sep 9 21:49:14 1996 IST):

Mr V.P. Singh. when i talked about federalism i meant free the states from the arbitary powers that the center can exercise on them. say in financial matters. why not give financial freedom to states? let them manage their own income and expenditure. let them look after their own development. this will be an incentive for them to do do good and also will bring more accountability. did you agree with the methods t.n. seshan employed for the conduct of the elections? i thought it was great that the candidates were stopped from spending crazy in the campaigning. why can't we have more independent bodies like the election commission? is the govt. afraid of loosing it's grip? make the cbi more independent so that it's director does not have to lick the soles of his masters. i hope if you ever come in power again you will consider these possibilities.

Piyu (Mon Sep 9 21:50:09 1996 IST):

Mr. Singh! At last you responded about Bihar Corruption case ? But will you held Bihar govt. accountable for this case ? When the Law makers of country will take Law Seriously ? Or When the leaders will start crossing party lines for such issues . What about moral behind taking support from "Corrupt" congress for your govt.? Why don't you criticise your govt. of Bihar for loss of multi crores rupees of public money ? I never heard anything from you against "Sukhram & Co." . He dares to sit in London, when "super honest" JD govt. is working in Delhi ? Why all politicians (including you) go to London/USA for medical checkups ? Why worse facilities or doctors (including benefitted by Mandal) are only for poor, backward people of INDIA?

Sailesh (Mon Sep 9 21:51:24 1996 IST):

Hello ex-PM.. If I may ask.. wh in the world did you start Mandal program at the first palce

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:52:20 1996 IST):

Sanjiv: I think in 100 days, there are many positive achievements of the Gowda government: 1) external affairs successes on CTBT and in the entry into the ASEAN Regional Forum, positive dialogue with the neighbours; 2) it has given positive signals to the economy and come up with a balanced budget; 3) it has accepted the demand for Uttarakhand state; 4) declared to bring in a bill for 30 per cent reservations for women in Parliament; 5) very positive signals for the farmers and various weaker sections. I stayed away from prime ministership because I had made a public commitment that till 1999, I would not be in electoral politics, and how could I continue to be prime minister without becoming an MP; the Constitution would not have been amended for me. Regarding Bal Thackeray, the prime minister has made a statement about his meeting, and so have various political parties. I think we should leave the matter there and go ahead with more serious tasks.

Nikunj Patel (Mon Sep 9 21:53:27 1996 IST):

Sir, you said that expulsion of Hegde is internal matter of JD but why are you meddling in the BJP affairs in Gujrat, you are predicting BJP's split howcome. Do not play politics of division. Make our country strong

Piyu (Mon Sep 9 21:53:57 1996 IST):

Abhijit Dey from Bangkok (Mon Sep 9 21:54:14 1996 IST):

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:54:50 1996 IST):

Vivek: Well, that is Hussain's domain. I have my own, you try to make out from my painting, look carefully enough.

Sailesh (Mon Sep 9 21:56:44 1996 IST):

VP Saab! if you are the so called crusader of the anti corruption.. then why didnt you do anything about it when you had power. I remeber your speechs given at the Hyderabad central univ.. where in you promised so much and yet.. you failed to deliver. As far as I see and you have been always a big talker and never a do-er.. Will you pls state one issue that you have taken up and sucessfully completed it.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:57:12 1996 IST):

Vishwas: Yes I agree that there has to be more delegation from the centre to the states, and from the states to the village level. We have to go behind the Sarkaria Commission, and delegate more financial powers and political power. This is one of the items that is high on the present government's agenda. I am confident that it will fulfill its commitment in this regard.

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:58:22 1996 IST):

Thank you all for your questions. Be ready with more for the next session. Best of Luck!

Abhijit Dey from Bangkok (Mon Sep 9 21:59:27 1996 IST):

Sorry for posting RECT message twice.

Piyu (Mon Sep 9 21:59:36 1996 IST):

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 21:59:40 1996 IST):

One last answer to sailesh: If I am not a doer, why are so many people angry with me?

Mr V P Singh, (Mon Sep 9 22:00:54 1996 IST):

Arvind Rajpal: The best PM -- one of your choice! What choice you make is yours.

v.s.joshi (Mon Sep 9 22:02:03 1996 IST):

MR. Singh, Thanks for answering my question on Uniform Civil code. I don't understand why people call you a person who created vote banks and hungry for power . On the contrary you have left power for your stances. In 89, the easiest thing to remain in power was to allow Advani Demolish the mosque. But you stood for certain principles You were a member of corrupt Congress party, but your image is absolutely clean. You TRIED TO CLEAN POLITICS by raising the BOFORS issue and fought against the 414 strong congress. You had a chance of becoming the PM THIS YEAR. YOU REFUSED. Atleast now, people from upper caste must not say that whatever you did was to grab power. Sir, hats off to you. We admire you. You are the best we ever had and mind you friends I am from the so called upper caste and a hindu. You stressed on Mandal, but that's what you had promised in the manifesto.

Nikhil Lakshman (Mon Sep 9 22:00:13 1996 IST):

Mr Singh, Many thanks for appearing on the Chat. I do hope you will appear on the Chat again when you are better. All our best wishes are always with you. Good night.