In a statement that has sent shockwaves through political circles, Mani Shankar Aiyar made a stunning claim about former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s academic record. Speaking in a recent interview, Aiyar alleged that Rajiv failed at Cambridge University and later at Imperial College London. The interviewer, seemingly taken aback, laughed in disbelief—but Aiyar remained firm.
“Yes, and in fact, it’s very difficult to fail in Cambridge, yet he failed. Then he went to Imperial College in London. But he failed there as well,” Aiyar stated. He further questioned, “How can such a person who failed twice become the Prime Minister of the country?”
Truth or Political Rhetoric?
Rajiv Gandhi enrolled at Trinity College, Cambridge, in 1962 to study engineering but did not complete his degree. He later moved to Imperial College London, where he also left without graduating. While some say he struggled academically, others argue he simply lost interest in engineering and pursued his passion for aviation instead.
Aiyar’s History of Controversy
Aiyar, known for his outspoken remarks, has had a turbulent relationship with the Congress leadership. This isn’t the first time he has stirred controversy. His past statements, including calling Narendra Modi a “chaiwala” and later a “neech aadmi,” landed him in political trouble. His latest comment has once again put the spotlight on Congress’s dynastic politics and the role of merit in leadership.
Political Fallout
- BJP leaders wasted no time in using Aiyar’s statement to target the Gandhi family’s legacy, questioning the meritocracy in Congress.
- Congress, on the other hand, has largely remained silent, possibly to avoid further controversy.
- Social media erupted with memes, with users debating whether educational qualifications should be a prerequisite for political leadership.
Does Education Matter in Politics?
Many argue that leadership isn’t about degrees but vision and experience. Several global leaders, including Narendra Modi, Abraham Lincoln, and Winston Churchill, didn’t hold prestigious academic credentials but led with strategic brilliance. However, in a country where millions struggle for degrees to secure jobs, Aiyar’s remark has reignited the debate on privilege, leadership, and competence in Indian politics.