I had desired to become President or PM: Dr Karan Singh

By
Daily Excelsior
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Excelsior Correspondent
NEW DELHI, May 21: Former Sadar-e Riyasat and veteran Congress leader Dr Karan Singh, always reticent to express his political goals, has said that he had nursed a desire to become President or Prime Minister of India but circumstances deprived him of the opportunity.
Speaking at the release of his latest book “An Examined Life: Essays and Reflections” here, Dr Singh delved into variety of subjects including current political situation and use of religion in politics. This apart he reflected on political, literary, religious and cultural facets of his life.
The book was released by former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. In the panel discussion held therafter, which was moderated by veteran editor Vir Sanghvi, eminent literary figure Ashish Nandi and Diplomat turned politician and a prominent writer Pavan Verma participated.
Dr Karan Singh revealed that he had wished to become Prime Minister at a stage. ” But when the then PM Indira Gandhi brought her son Sanjay Gandhi into politics I realised that I stand no chance now,” he added.
His desire to become President was grounded by the Left Parties during the UPA rule. ” Some Left leaders including then CPI general secretary A B Bradhan had opposed my name due to my work related to study of Hinduism and related activities. I thank Dr Manmohan Singh for backing my name for the top post,” he said.
Dr Karan Singh strongly felt that religion was being misused for political purposes. ” Religion can always be a guiding force in politics and governance. But trouble erupts when it is misused and misinterpreted for vested political interest,” he said.
He expressed serious concern on growing confrontation in politics. There is much more confrontation now and language has become unparliamentary,” he added.
Ashish Nandi praised Dr Karan Singh for never making public exhibition of his religious faith despite being a scholar if Hinduism.
Vikramaditya Singh, elder son of Dr Karan Singh presented the vote of thanks.

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