Thu Mar 06 07:55:34 UTC 2025: ## Congress Veteran Aiyar Sparks Controversy with Remarks on Rajiv Gandhi’s Academic Record

**New Delhi, India** – Veteran Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar has once again ignited a political firestorm with controversial comments about former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s academic performance. A short clip from a recent interview, circulating widely on social media, shows Aiyar stating that Rajiv Gandhi failed exams at both Cambridge and Imperial College London. While Aiyar later clarified his remarks within the longer interview context, the BJP has seized upon the clip, using it to criticize the Gandhi family.

Aiyar’s comments, made during a discussion on Rahul Gandhi’s leadership capabilities, focused on the former Prime Minister’s initial academic struggles before highlighting Rajiv Gandhi’s subsequent successes as Prime Minister. He also drew parallels to Indira Gandhi’s early career, emphasizing the potential for growth and leadership despite initial setbacks.

However, the shortened clip, omitting this wider context, has been amplified by BJP leader Amit Malviya, who used it to question Rajiv Gandhi’s suitability for the Prime Ministership.

The Congress party has reacted defensively, with several leaders dismissing Aiyar’s remarks and attacking his credibility. Harish Rawat described Aiyar as “frustrated,” while Tarique Anwar emphasized Rajiv Gandhi’s significant political achievements. Other Congress leaders labelled Aiyar a “BJP sleeper cell,” suggesting his comments were intended to harm the party.

Aiyar himself, when questioned about mentoring Rahul Gandhi, stated that the Leader of the Opposition has consistently rejected his advice.

The incident highlights the ongoing internal tensions within the Congress party and its ongoing battle with the ruling BJP. The controversy surrounding Aiyar’s remarks continues to dominate political discourse.

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