Sonia Gandhi discusses new memoir, political legacy, and criticism of BJP

Sonia Gandhi states that the BJP and RSS dispensation has caused significant damage to India's democracy, institutions, and social fabric. In a detailed interview regarding her upcoming memoir titled Belonging: A Journey of Love, the senior leader reflected on her personal history, political choices, and decades in public life.

Writing The Memoir

Although dozens of biographies have been written about her by various authors, she never felt inclined to read them. She began writing her own story more than ten years ago, though serious writing started about five years ago amidst periods of creative flow and frustration. The book serves primarily as a personal memoir framed by politics, detailing her bond with Rajiv Gandhi, her integration into his family, and her eventual entry into public service to protect the sacrifices made by her family.

Political Journey

Looking back at her time in India, she maintains that the core values she learned growing up in Italy—such as loyalty, sincerity, and responsibility—remain unchanged. Reflecting on Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, she credits them with shaping her outlook through their courage, empathy, and strict adherence to duty. Discussing the 1975-1977 Emergency, she notes that while democratic rights were suspended, Indira Gandhi faced severe unrest and later called for the March 1977 election while publicly expressing regret for past excesses.

Context

Memoirs by senior political figures often provide historical insight into major national events from their personal perspective. Sonia Gandhi has served as the long-time president of the Indian National Congress, leading the party through multiple national elections and coalition governments.