V.P.Singh speech at the parliament during motion of confidence debate on 7th November, 1990
V. P. Singh historical speech on 7th November 1990 on the day his govt fall after he lost the motion of confidence against his government.
True secular , progressive, rational , social justice champion ❤️ .
THE PRIME MINISTER (SHRI VISH WANATH PRATAP SINGH): Sir. I beg to move that this House expressed its confidence in the Council of Ministers."
[Translation]
MR. SPEAKER: You speak when your turn comes please take your seat now.(Interruptions)
[English]MR. SPEAKER: Let the debate take place in a good manner. Please take your seats.
(Interruptions)
MR. SPEAKER: I am not permittingyou.[Translation]
(Interruptions)
SHRIVISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH:
Mr. Speaker, Sir, through you I would tike to submit before all the hon. Members that there have always been diverse opinions on various issues; there has been unanimity as well, but this House is the apex body of the country for expressing our views and understanding the view points of others. Today, the country is faced with many grave problems and we have to take decision on serious issues. He have not to decide the fate of the Government, but it is the principles which are to be decided. (Interruptions)
And you have rightly said that as far as the fate of the Government is concerned, I had very clearly visualised the things on that very day when the Rath Yatra was stopped; on that very day I had decided... (Interruptions)
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH: And when this had been made clear by the Bhartiya Janata Party that if the Rath Yatra was stopped... (Interruptions) I am coming to that also. I will furnish dwell on the developments month-wise. (Interruptions)
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH: I would like to thank Shri Advani for the point which he has made. In today’s discussion all groups should please listen to each other, the final decision is in your hands. My appeal is that even if one feels hurt by something said during the course of today’s discussion, one should exercise restraint and place his views before the House on the basis of one’s comprehension, duly supported by arguments.I would like to submit that so far as Government is concerned we had decided about it consciously. I know that the issue is not to be decided today. The Government had already taken a decis»n on that very day when Bharatiya Janata Party had presented a resolution before the public clearly that if Rath-Yatra or Kar Seva was stopped, it would withdraw its support to the Government. Keeping in view the mathematics of the composition of the house, a challenge was thrown to the Government to take a decision in the matter as the state of its existence. Why was this issue raised at that time? The reason was that there were some related issues. By bringing these issues before this House and by having a discussion on them, the ideas will be dearly put before the people of the country. That is why this issue has been brought before this House. Not only this, it is also a fact that wei.e. Bharatiya Janata Party, leftist Parties and Janata Dal have all worked unitedly to run the National Front Government during the last ten-eleven months. But what new developments took place which compelled the Government to take a different decision. It was not just the question of Rath Yatra or Kar-Seva, but it involved certain basic issues. It has started a fundamental debate. The four basic points in this debate are;—
1. Is one’s religious faith above the Constitution or above the set up established under the constitution;
2. Should there be a religious polarisation in this country?
3. Is the mixing up of religion with politics desirable?
4. Will the emotional integration of the country be preserved or not?
These four points are linked with this issue. There was a big question mark and the Government had to take a decision as to in which direction we shoukl go, and we took a decision. When a choice between power and principles came before us, we considered it proper to adhere to principles rather to sticking to power. We could retain power by compromising our principles. If we could have made a compromise on these four points, the Government would have survived, but the question was whether the Government should survive or the country. Everybody is familiar with the background of controversy about Rama Janam Bhoomi and Babri Masjid. We have nothing new to say about this matter, but the background of the disputed site of Babri Masjid and Ram Janam Bhoomi lies in the order of the Allahabad High Court which says that status quo should be maintained there. This means that the Babri Masjid or the existing structure should not be demolished. In no way should it be destroyed or demolished and at the same time there should be no interference with the pooja of the idol of Lord Rama till a final decision is taken in the matter. It is the responsibility of the Government to maintain the status quo there. Whatever be the decision of the court it has got to be respected. If court decides that it is a mosque, let there be a mosque. If the court decides that it is Ram Janam Bhoomi, let it be accepted by all. A present status quo has been maintained to ensure justice.
So far as the construction of the temple in Ayodhya is concerned, no Muslim has objected to it till date nor has any Muslim said till date that they will object to the construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. If the temple or Lord Rama is not constructed in Ayodhya where else it will be constructed. There is no dispute. (Interruptions)
I say even today that minorities are being dragged into the dispute.
(Interruptions)
Nobody has any objection to the construction of a temple in reverence of Lord Rama. Not only from the minorities has ever said this. So many steps were taken and many attempts were made to solve this problem. And I agree that the people for various parties and those associated with different institutions and the religious leaders from both the communities and other communities also tried their best to solve this Issue. It is not so that they did not make efforts. A proposal was put forward on behalf of the Government that a plot of land adjacent to the site, which is quite close to Rama Katha park can be a much better site than the disputed spot Government had offered this land for the construction of the temple. (Interruptions)
SHRIMATI JAYAWANTINAVINCHAN- DRA MEHTA: Temple will be constructed at Rama’s birth place. (Interruptions)
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH; My submission is that whatever be the decision of the court for the solution of the problem, that should be implemented. If it goes in favour of Rama Janam Bhoomi, it could be implemented accordingly. It is said that six crores of rupees have been collected and constructon of the temple will also take a long time. On the one hand it was said that special bench may be constituted and there should be regular hearings and whatever judgement is delivered should be accepted.
(Interruptions)
SHRIMATI JAYAWANTINAVINCHANDRA MEHTA: Nothing had been done for four months. (Interruptions)
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH: Madam, one may hold the Government guilty after four months, but what was the fault of the innocent children? (Interruptions)
SHRI PHOOL CHAND VERMA (Shajapur): How many people were sacrificed for Mandal Commission? (Interruptions)
[English]MR. SPEAKER: The Prime Minister is on his legs. Please take your seats.(Interruptions)
MR. SPEAKER: The Prime Minister is speaking; Shri Lodhaji, please take your seat.
(Interruptions)
[Translation]
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH: In this way. Sir, many reasonable proposals were put forward and attempts were made at all levels, but the matter reached a deadlock, when it was said that the decision of the court is not acceptable. (Interruptions)
MR. SPEAKER: Mr. Khurana, your turn for speaking will also come. Please be seated.(Interruptions)
MR. SPEAKER: Be seated, please.
SHRI MOHAMMAD SHAFI (Srinagar): This is Pariiament House not Rath Yatra. (Interruptions)
MR. SPEAKER: Be seated, please.(Interruptions)
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH
Sir, some people put forward a proposal that this issue can be solved if an ordinance is promulgated and if the Government presents it as fait accompali the problem may possibly be solved and later on it will be accepted by all. When all measures were exhausted, this too was tried, but this was also not accepted by both the parties. People from Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Babri Masjid both rejected it. Of-course, Advanij called it a very small step in the right direction. Ataiji also endorsed ... (Interruptions) ... But the people belonging to Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Babri Masjid rejected it. And Shri Advani also made a statement. The main purpose of issuing the ordinance was to find an early solution by referring the matter to Supreme Court since the dispute has been continuing for several years, which has generated considerable tension. While conceding that it was a step in the right direction it was said that the temple would be constructed only at the spot where Lord Rama was born. The other aspect of the ordinance related to the maintenance of status quo. The acceptance of ordinance till the supreme court delivered a judgement, did not mean that status quo was being disturbed. Because if it is brought in disputed the dispute will remain there. But intention should also be clear. It was creating another major controversy. Therefore Government withdrew it. Then it was urged that it should be solved through mutual dialogue and the decision of the court shoukJ be accepted. But the matter reached a deadlock, when they said that they could not have any talks on it and they could not wait further and they were also not agreeable to accept the courts decision. At that time we had to make a choice and we decided that we would not accept it as many things were linked with it.So far as this problem is concerned, whole Government has been staked on this issue. I would like to say in this connection that I will continue to make efforts to solve this issue, it will be our collective effort throughout our life to solve it. The question of remaining in power or going out of power does not matter much. What really matters is that the issue should be solved. If this issue is solved through mutual dialogue, it would be a great example of national integration. Ram Janam Bhoomi and Babri Masjid issue should be solved through mutual discussion, it is our collective responsibility to solve it through mutual talks. It should be made a point for national integration by finding out a solution of such a major controversy through mutual discussion. Consensus should be evolved for resolving this big controversy.I would like to ask a question which is very much relevant to this issue. If there is a clash between two faiths or two religious faiths in a country where there are many religions and no body can question other faiths and where all religions enjoy equable respect, then what is the way out? The religions faith of one section the other can not the violated. Thus it can be solved either through mutual discussion orthrough a court of law. How can the country be run? If a precedent is created at one place and if it is accepted and people of other religions raise such issues, it will come a very great problem. A good suggestion in this connection is that a legislation should be enacted by Parliament to maintain the status quo of all religions places as on a particular date so that dispute may not arise in future. It would be a good decision. We extend our full support for such a move. Initiative should be taken in this direction. I think a consensus could be evolved about it. But a big argument is made when it is said that one’s religious faith is above the constitution and the court. It is above the State, then it is possible only in a theocratic State. It is the definition of theocratic State and we would be laying the foundation of a theocratic State. When election symbol and religion are mixed up..
(Interruptions)
SHRI MADAN LAL KHURANA (South Delhi); These are all obsolete ideas. (Interruptions)
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH: These are not obsolete things these are the things which will be arise in future. Had these things been obsolete, there was no need tosay anything. These things will arise in future, that is why we have changed our path.
(Interruptions)
Today there should be a fundamental debate on this issue. Government’s coming in power and going out of power do not matter much. Governments come into power and go out. Government is not a thing which is non-available. Now it is very easily available.
(Interruptions)
But we have to see whether religion and politics can be mixed up and whether there would be religious polarisation in this country. If religious polarisation takes place, what will be its effect in Punjab, Kashmir and North India. What will be its effect on our Armed Forces, Police and army. ...
(Interruptions)
I am proud of our army, armed forces and police. These are the symbol of our unity and they are Indian*; first irrespective of caste, religion and language. The soldier who wears a military uniform is always ready to face any danger. We are proud of them. All of us have shed our blood on borders of the country. Every inch of our land is sacred. If we put its dust on our forehead as tilak’, the unity of our country will be maintained (Interruptions) Dust of every temple and Masjid is sacred. I do rrot say that these controversies should continue to occupy our mind because it affects our youths adversely. Its results can be seen in other countries too and it leads to dictatorship and murder of democracy which cannot be checked by other forces. Therefore, main issue of today’s debate is continuance of democracy and not the Government. We have to decide about the main issue and it is not the issue as to what sort of Government will be there. What a Government wouki be there is quite evident. We have to consider as to what shape of community we want. We have to deckje if we want the country where all the people live in amity, p>eace or a country full of hatred. We wanted these things to be debated and it has been alleged that we are sticking to the Chair. Had we been interested in power only, we woukj have compromised our principles. Something else woukI have been done. (Interruptions) Dagger is there and one should see as to who is using that dagger.
(Interruptions)
He would go on record and this country is witness to those issues whk:h have been attacked. This fact should form past of our history...
(Interruptions) ...
I know that this main issue will be raised in today’s discussion... (Interruptions) ...
There are issues. It is not that the country has no problems. These can be debated. The debate can be held on the achievements and failures of the Government. Good and bad points of the Government can be discussed. There is force on the arguments of both the sides. Debates can be held on Punjab, Kashmir and Assam problems, price rise and the State of the economy of the country and good as well as bad points of the Government may be highlighted. But all these are being raised, because other parties want to evade the real issue which has to be decided today. We want to put the real issue before them. We want them to face the reality. The main issue has been framed in the minds of the people of the country and issue has been framed politically throughout the country. A decision should be taken about the stand taken by Government in not allowing the Rath Yatra any further. The Government does stick to its stand in this regard. The members cannot shirk their moral responsibility by referring to other issues. If other matters are to be discussed, it should be decided today itself. The issue has been framed politically in the entire country and the other House may also be summoned immediately for the purpose and a decision may be taken about the shortcomings and mistakes of the Government. The time has now come when principles for which this Government have stood for and your principles are to be tested, your integrity is to be judged...
(Interruptions) ...
Sir, so far as we know the religion in India, has always been a unifying force. It is a matter of feeling and faith and has never got a place in the politics of power. One may not bow to a king, but an enlightened and religious person is always held in high esteem. There might be other reasons for a clash in the society. There is no clash between religions. Hinduism symbolise unity and it has brought different people closer, it has united animate with inanimate and soul with the omnipresent, the God. Hinduism has not created differences amongthe people, it has united them Islam also has been a symbol of equality and brotherhood. Christianity is a symbol of love, Buddhism and Jainism have been the symbol of nonviolence. Our religious feelings have been our biggest asset, legacy, heritage and motivating force. This has been the basis of our history and with the help of it, we can mould our new history in future. If we distort our religious spirit, we will distort our history, culture and future. Let it be decided today. It is to be approved today. It would have to be decided as to who is on this side and who is on the other side.Guru Nanak Devji had brought every one together. There are doors on all sides of Harmandir Sahib, which are all open for the devotees irrespective of their faith. One can see it in Harmandir Sahib. There is no discrimination or confrontation in various religions. There may be difference In rituals and not in religions and now there is confrontation in politics also. But there is something else behind the curtain. Not only this, the steps that the Government had taken with regard to the down-trodden and backward classes...
(Interruptions) ...
Are you saying something reliable? The steps that were taken forthe betterment of backward classes through implementation of Mandal Commission Report, were resented and it has also been the cause behind it, Sir. we know that we are out to fight with the system which is thousands of years old. and there is no doubt that By doing so we would find ourselves in difficulty. Perhaps it is my fate. It happened when I was the Chief Minister, or Union Minister of Finance or Minister of Defence or even now when I am the Prime Minister.
(Interruptions)
MR. SPEAKER: Rakeshji, please sit down.
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH: When I was the Minister of Finance, my views clashed with the economic system and thus I had to go from that post; during my tenure as the Minister of Defence my views clashed with the political system. I had to go again and now when I am the Prime Minister,my concept differs from the present concept of social system and thus it is being said that I may have to go soon. However, I am not bothered about it. We are not bound to bow down to these systems just to complete our five years’ election term. We will prefer to keep ourselves away from the power but we will continue to fight against injustice. We don’t mind even if we have to contest hundreds of elections but we will not give up the path of justice. This year has been observed as the year for justice in commemoration of birth centenary of Bharat Ratna Baba Saheb Bhim Rao Ambedkar and whatever steps we have taken in this regard have been resented by certain classes. Now the question is as to how the poor can become partners in power. The poor will have to involve himself in that struggle for justice, because he is not fighting for his livelihood rather he is fighting for respect and honour in the social life. That is why my submission has be’en that unless weaker sections participate in the power- structure-whether it is in this House or in the bureaucracy — their problems cannot be solved. Therefore, efforts will have to be made in order to enable them to get their share in the administration of the country. Unless they are involved in administration, mere holding discussions will be futile and those people will continue to remain ignored.Sir, we reached this stage with hard struggle and the formation of Government was just a halt. We continued the struggle while in Government and will continue it when such of power. We are prepared for a relentless struggle; even a few moments of important occurences have considerable significance in history. Members may be anxious as to why we have parted company with B.J.P. after an alliance of 10-11 months. My submission in this regard is that it was just an experiment to bring rightists and leftists together. National Front was formed as an alternative to the Congress. Since independence there was no alternative political party to the Congress. After independence, the country had to face a number of problems and in order to solve them an alternative was essential.
12.00 hrs
But the decades after decades passed, no political alternative direction could emerge. National Front was an effort in that direction. On one side there was left spectrum and on the other BJP while Congress was in the centre but no centrist option was there to be chosen by the people in case they wanted to go against the Congress. National Front filled this vacuum in that sense. It was a new attempt to form the Government. In order to fulfil the aspirations of the people for a political alternative to end the Congress monopoly. all the forces came together in the last elections. Though our compaign was not joint but we had an agreement for seat adjustments. Under the agreement for seat adjustments, we got the public mandate to end the Congress political monopoly and under the same public mandate, we had an alliance with the leftist parties as well as the B.J. P. and we had been working in consultation with each other but the public mandate was mainly against the Congress. Whatever we spoke in public meetings was totally against the Congress. Not only can deny this. Of course, some differences were there. Shri Advani raised the issue of article 370 and suggested its exclusion whereas I favoured. But on the Ram Janam Bhoomi Babri Masjid issue, B.J.P. always asserted that they lend their moral support only to it but would never get political benefit out of it. Whenever this matter came up. they claimed that the movement was started by Vishwa Hindu Parishad and they were just giving moral support to it.
PROF. VIJAY KUMAR MALHOTRA (Delhi Sadar); Don’t make wrong statements. It has never been said.
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH: This will be decided today Vishwa Hindu Parishad only because they are mainly involved in it. Neither during the election campaign nor duhng consultations it was made evident that they were giving their support to National Front mainly on the basis of Ram Janam Bhoomi Babri Masjid issue as defined by Vishwa Hindu Parishad. This became dear only during the ‘Rath Yatra’. It was alleged that we did not consult them on some other matters, also. However, in that particular case we did inform them. Another allegation made against me was that I do not follow the judiciary and the Constitution. I do not want to go into this controversy. If I have faith in something, you should also have faith in that and only then some solution may come out. This was the only fundamental difference that broke our relations.According to the news reports today the situation is that BJP and Congress both are in a mood to topple the Government. But I would like to ask them...
(Interruptions) ...
If they topple the Government they must take responsibility to run the Government also. Political sincerity demands that the people who topple the Government should shun the responsibility of running the Government. Out of 280 members, we were about 140 and we formed the Government but now it is heard that 190 members will be on one side and 25 members will be on the other side and it is very surprising that 190 members cannot run the Government. You should have some courage at least... (Interruptions)
MR. SPEAKER: Shastriji. please sit down. I did not allow you to speak, so please sit down.
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH: It reveals only the opportunist tendencies and the violation of public mandate. It is also being said that on one side there wilt be an engine of 25 HP and on the other of 190 HP. Will the 25 HP will carry the 190 HP or it will be the other way round? (Interruptions) Sir. generally we see a jeep pulling a trailor because the jeep has got the strength of HP . an engine is there in it and the trailor follows it. but today it appears as if the trailor will push the jeep. (Interruptions)
SHRI DEVI LAL (Sikar): Today the situation is that pubic opinion is with us whereas the power is in their hands. It is really a very strange position.
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH: Sir. just now I gave the example of trailor and jeep, however, the traitor can push the jeep only when the jeep is put in reverse gear. But if Rajivji drives the jeep in the forward gear, the trailor will never move ahead.Sir. the people have given their verdict in favour of various political parties other than the Congress, so it will be far better if such parties run the Government. It is related to the previous election. We will accept what you decide, we will sit on the opposition benches if you wish. So far as differences inside the family are concerned even today if anyone wants to return to his family he is welcome, there is time till this evening. But, Sir. that would be a wrong convention because the Government can be formed only as per the political authority of the country.[English]political authority must reflect the political will.[Translation]It would not be the sanctity or legitimacy of political will if any of the splinter group is given the responsibility to form the Government, it would set a wrong precedent. Therefore, such precedents should not be started.The topk: has shifted to a national Government. It has been pointed out that the country is facing a number of problems— Punjab problem, Jammu-Kashmir problem. Assam problem, then there is problem of price-rise and the gulf, and a national Government should be formed to meet all these challenges. This matter can be taken into consideration, but I would like to make it clear that my party would join hands with none except the left parties. We would not join hands even with BJP which considers itself to be above even the Constitution and the law. Therefore, Sir, I would appeal to you and all the hon. Members of the House that they should rise above their political interests and take decisions according to their conscience to promote unity of the country secularism, dignity of the Constitution and for the upliftment of suppressed, exploited and neglected sections of the people. With these words, I conclude.
[English]MR. SPEAKER: Motion moved:
[English]MR. SPEAKER: Motion moved:*That this House expresses its confidence in the Council of Ministers.*
21.43 hrs.
(MR. SPEAKER In the Chair) The Members of BJP are responsible for it. It is they who had broken the Janata party... (Interruptions) ...
MR. SPEAKER: Orderplease, Mr. Prime Minister.
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH: Mr. Speaker, today’s discussion does not show as to what India stands for. It is the debate of fundamental political concepts The debate was limited to the point as to how country could be run despite differences of opinion in the country and as to how ways could be found out and what were our limitations. But a clear cut thing which has come before us during the discussion is as to what is the main issue of the debate? The last sentence of Hon. Advaniji has pin pointed that main issue. I have great regard for him. But he said in the las sentence of his speech that elections should be held on this issue. Has the issue been decided? This difference has appeared during this period of 11 months.
When this issue was raised on the eve of last elections, it was said very clearly by Bharttya Janata Party that Ram Janam Bhoomi and Babri Masjid issue is not an election issue and today Hon. Advaniji is saying in the last sentence of his speech that elections should be fought on this issue. This is the difference between two stands which has led us to part our ways. You were asking as to what change has taken place during this period of 11 months. This is the fundamental change which was not there earlier and which has taken place during the last 11 months. On which issue is this Government being pulled down today? This Government is being pulled down as it is not agreeable to violate the order of the court. The Government is being voted out as it does not violate the order of the court. I would like to submit that if any Government, whose members have come to power after subscribing the oath of the Constitution,, cannot abide by the orders of the court, has got no right to remain in power even for a single day...
(Interruptions)
This is the new element to which I am referring. This element was not there 11 months earlier. Hon leaders of opposition have raised many questions. They have got only questions and questions, but they have no answers to anything. This is the reason that we also got the questions in legacy and not answers.
SHRI VASANT SATHE: Today is the last day of this Government. You may give reply to the questions
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH: There is no last day in the political calender. This is the real issue. It was also asked as to why the 'Rath Yatra' was not stopped earlier. You are aware that all efforts were being made in that period. The concerned parties tike religious leaders, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Babri Masjid Committee and political groups were being consulted and there was some hope of a solution to the problem. Our discussions with them did make us hopeful of a solution. A solution to this problem will remove fear from the hearts of people for all times to come. All out efforts should be made towards that end. but not at the cost ofprinciples. Of course that is the bask: thing. If something has to be done, it can be done only al an undisputed place. Secondly we must accord due recognition to the "ljfas\ We always kept these two points in our mind. Yet our best efforts were in vain and it came to a point when any further step woukJ have required a compromise with our principles something which is not possible. The Bihar Chief Minister took a step and ‘Rath Yatra’ was stopped. Shri Advani saki about *Kar Seva* I even today say that it can be done with the consent of both the Parties, and the status-quo of the disputed site should be maintained and tiie verdict of the Court should also be respected. Almost all parties are ready to co-operate if a solution can be found within these parameters. If it is deckled that a temple of Lord Rama shoukd be constructed then no Muslim should have any objection to it. I would have no objectons if due recognition is given to court in the approach to the problem. A soluton found in this way would be in the national interest.As far as the Ordinance is concerned, I said in the beginning itself that both Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the Babri Masjid Action Committee were not in its favour. So there was no point in making an issue of it.
(Interruptions ) Finally some people advised that as all efforts had failed there could only be one way to solve this problem. Based on that we made a last-ditch effort. We must look for a solution through mutual dialogue. Neither I nor any responsible person will abarxjon the path of mutual dialogue. What must be abandoned is the false corx:ept of 'Ram c/o V.H.P”
(Interrupiions )
even that shoukJ be abandoned. Therefore, if all the concerned parties arrive at a solu tion through mutual dialogue, it will be the greatest tribute to the natonal unity. As we have put everything at stake in solving this problem we shall continue to look for a solution. A Bill should be brought to ensure the status quo of all temples amdd mosques as on a partcular date. This wiM dispel any wrong notions regarding demolition of the temples and mosques in this country. We must make effort in this direction (Interrupiions )
MR. SPEAKER: Shri Joshi, please be seated. Order please.
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH: Sir, I want to repeat what I said this morning that even God had to take on human form in his various ‘avatars’. Even he. the all powerful, has to under go the pain that a human being has to pass through. When it comes to human qualities, even God has to relent. So human qualities are of utmost importance and this has to be accepted only where such qualities are found, we can fee the presence of God. Human qualities spring from the heart and it is in the heart that God resides. This is a fact whether we accept it or npt. Shri A.K. Rai rightly said that someone who created the universe is facing a housing problem and we will give him living space. It would be wrong to think that God can be housed in a temple, mosque or church. These places are mere structures of concrete and stone. If we have human qualities, God will automatically be with us. Mere buildings do not make places of worship. Let us turn our attention to God’s creations, our fellow humans. There are a numberof people who are treated as untouchables and lead a life of misery.It becomes our duty to help these people and that is exactly what we did. The Government has power and this power has been directed towards helping the poor and backward class of people and this has created certain problems.The hon. leader of the Opposition said that the Mandal Commission has raised the issue of casteism. This aspect must be understood very clearly. The social structure and political structure are inter-dependent in many ways. There may be differences between the social and economic structures but there is lot of co-operation at the lower levels. It is also true that this lower level largely belongs to the Delhi community and small farmers. Out of them 99% are poor. And in them 90% are small and marginal farmers. It is also true that upper caste people are rich.22.00 hrs.If there are difference between the social structure and economic structure there are similarities between the social structure and political structure without changing the political structure we cannot root out casteism and change the social structure. To root out casteism wp must bring about changes in the political structure. The decision taken by us with regard to the Mandal Commission has been taken after serious consideratk)n and with determination. There is no doubt in this fact that this step of our’s is not wrong. We all have come from villages, so we all are ready to put our might for the welfare of villagers. We brought 51 bills for the fulfilment of various items contained in our manifesto. A plant had started to grow, and give a few fruits but it was cut down before it could grow fully. We did initiate action towards helping the poor but could not complete our endeavour.As far as stability of the Government is concerned this Government was a minority Government but now we are moving from a minority Government to a miniscule Government. What is its political legitimacy? Why should there be a need for political legitimacy to run the country? All parties which have been elected have come with some Programme. If on the basis of public mandate, we are going to start a new tradition a bad tradition, then it will a wrong tradition. There is a tradition in this respect and it would be wrong to break this tradition. When the example of jeep and trolley was given by me it was said that any vehicle is controlled by the driver. But let me say that whoever may be the driver, the identity of the owner of the jeep is quite clear. (Interruptions )Hon. Shri Ram Dhan spoke of threats to his life and other hon. Members spoke of being lured by money. This is a dangering thing. Will the industrialists of Delhi, Bombay and Calcutta action the aspirations of 80 crore people of this country?As was said earlier greater the size of the corporate sector, greater will be its power and stronger will be its hold in the political sphere. What started as a small thing has now assumed larger proportions. This is the greatest danger to democracy. Hon. Shri Indrajit Gupta expressed fears regarding the Bofors matter being closed forever. I request the President to keep the relevant papers in his safe custody.Lastly I would like to express my gratitude to my hon. colleagues in the Left Parlies who have stood by us in this period.
SHRI L.K. ADVANI: The hon. Prime Minister has raised an important issue of Bofors. After all, the entire election was fought on that very issue. Since that issue has come up I think it would be better if the hon. Prime Minister gives all the information that he has on this subject... [Interruptions)
[English]PROF. MADHU DANDVATE: You Know, Mr. Advani, what is the present position?
[ Translation]SHRI L.K. ADVANI: Though I am not in the Government yet I understand my responsibility towards the public regarding investigation of this matter and finding out the truth
[English]PROF. MADHU DANDVATE: The New Prime Minister will take care of it.
SHRI L.K. ADVANI: At least the facts should be known (Interruptions)
PROF. MADHU DANDVATE: Do not cheaper fourself..
SHRI DEVI LAL: It would be better if the hon. Prime Minister make the matter clear related to Bofors. (Interruptions)
[English]SHRI L.K. ADVANI: I take strong exception to the remarks of my old colleague Shn Dandavateji. There is no cheapness in what I said
PROF. MADHU DANDAVATE: I give my unqualified apology to Shri Advaniji.
SHRI L.K. ADVANI: In fairness to Parliament, after 11 months, at least this Parliament should be told what has been the result of the investigation from that?[Translation]
SHRI VISHWANATH PRATAP SINGH I agree to this. I would like to give information to you in regard to the development that took place in this station. Sir, till the coming in power of my Government, no FIR had been lodged in this coection. It was my Government which lodged the FIR. (Interruptions)
First listen to me. only this JPC report has been presented. Its effect was that bank accounts in Switzerland were frozen. The previous Government could take action in this respect, but they did nothing. It reveals their intentions. Not only this, we were also successful in Zurich court and the verdict was given in our favour there Now the case is pending in the Federal Court of Switzerlad The court has conveyed that the documents of all the accounts can be handed over to the Government of India even if a single case is decided. So this is the progress which has been made. As a result of our sincere efforts we have been successful in obtaining that secret portion of the Sweden report which the previous Government had failed to do. In this manner a considerable progress has been made in this matter and in the mean- while several decisions have also been taken The rest will be the responsibility of the next Government. In view of this you can very well asseess as to what progress has been made in this (Interruptions)
SHRI L K ADVANI: Mr Speaker. Sir. the cou[:try will like the culprits to be ex posed. Because the Congress will certainly be there in the new Government to be formed and the peopio will naturally raise objections that we provided opportunity for them to come into power due to which the whole matter was hushed up. Therefore I would like that the f-iouse should know atleast who the actual culprit is.
(Interruptions)
SHRIBHOGENDRA JHA (Madhubani): With the permission of the Hon.Prime Minister I would like to ask this question Mr. Speaker, Sir, in view of the speculations being made in regard to the Bofores issue whether it is possible as suggested by the Hon. Prime Minister, to hand over the matter to the president. Whether it would not be appropriate to place all the documents o the table of the House so that no room is left for any bungling to be made in this case. Is it possible?
(Interruptions)
SHRI VISHWANATH PARATAP SINGH; Sir, at this moment neither there is any feeling of vanity nor that of anguish on our part. Rather we are feeling happy and also proud that we are not retiring disgracefully. Sometimes death is better than life. Sir. when a person chooses to sacrifice his life to attain the motive dear to him, he does not feel sorry about it. It is a matter of fight for a cause, we continued our fight for ths cause when we remained in power, wo will continue the same even after going out of power. Formation of Government is merely a transitional phase, it is not the ultimate goal. For those who continue their struggle it hardly matters that they are in power or not. Our fight for the causes dear to us will continue. We will continue to fight for those who have been exploited, suppressed and ncglected. Merely by enacting laws the history of a country cannot be changed unless those sections who were suppressed are ready to fight against it. It ifi only when they come out that the history is created. We re fully resolved to continue our fight.
SHRI DEVI LAL: Our former Prime Minister claims that he is not quitting with any sense of disgrace but the fact is this that he is being made to quit.
[English] MR. SPEAKER: I shall now put the Motion moved by Shri Vishwanath Pratap Singh to the vote of the House. The question is: "That this House expresses its confidence in the Council of Ministers.”Those in favour will please say 'Aye’
SOME HON. MEMBERS: Aye’
MR. SPEAKER: Those against will please say ‘No’.
SEVERAL HON. MEMBERS: 'No’.
MR. SPEAKER: I think the ‘Noes’ have it. The 'Noes’ have it.
PROF. MADHU DANDAVATE: The ‘Ayes’ have it. Let us have a division.
MR. SPEAKER; Let the lobbies be cleared.
MR. SPEAKER: Now, the Lobbies have been cleared. I shall now put the motion by Shri Vishwanath Pratap Singh to the vote of the House. The question is: “Thatthis House expresses its confidence in the Council of Ministers.”
The Lok Sabha divided
MR. SPEAKER : Subject to correction,* the result of the division is
*Ayes : 142
Noes : 346
The motion was negatived
22.20 hrs.
OBSERVATION BY SPEAKER
[English]MR. SPEAKER: Hon. Members. I must congratulate you all for the orderly debate today. The standard of the debate indeed was very high. Despite differences of opinion, approach and outlook, I have no doubt, hon. Members had kept uppermost in theirminds the national interest.Today, the country is passing through a very difficulst time. There are many problems facing us which need to be tackled. The need of the hour is that the country should ramain united to face all the challanges and take the country on its journey to build a strong and prosperous India.Hon. Members. I am sure, the House would join me unreservedly in appealing to all sections of our people to maintain peace and harmony and promote mutual trust and continue their struggle unitedly with a firm resolve to bring about a total revolution for a bright and prosperous India. Being the chosen representatives of the people belonging to this august House, all of us have to address ourselves most earnestly and sincerely to the task of nation building forgetting all our differences. We have to remind ourselves all the sufferings and sacrifice made by millions of our countrymen to achieve freedom from foreign yoke so that we do nothing which may jeopardise our freedom and dignity. This way alone we can redeem our debt to those martyrs and fulfil the dream of the father of the Nation. Thank you very much.The House stands adjopurned sine die.
22.25 hrs.
The Lok Sabha then Ajourned sine die.
Source : https://eparlib.nic.in/handle/123456789/1334?view_type=browse
