Historian Urges Rahul Gandhi to Secure Return of Nehru’s Papers Removed in 2008
The controversy surrounding Jawaharlal Nehru’s private papers has resurfaced with a letter from historian Rizwan Kadri to Rahul Gandhi, urging him to address their alleged removal from the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library (NMML) in 2008. Kadri, who is also a member of the renamed Prime Ministers Museum and Library (PMML), claims that the papers were taken on instructions from Sonia Gandhi, who was then chairperson of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA).
These papers include Nehru’s correspondence with global icons like Edwina Mountbatten, Albert Einstein, and Indian leaders such as Aruna Asaf Ali and Jayaprakash Narayan. Their absence from the PMML archives has sparked debates over the management and preservation of India’s historical documents.
Documents of National Importance Removed?
In his letter, Kadri highlighted the significance of these papers, stating that they were “donated to NMML” and formed a critical resource for researchers. He emphasized that their removal in 2008 deprived historians of invaluable insights into Nehru’s personal and political ideologies.
Among the missing documents are:
Letters between Nehru and Edwina Mountbatten, which provide a glimpse into their relationship.
Exchanges with Albert Einstein, reflecting Nehru’s views on science and international diplomacy.
Notes from Aruna Asaf Ali and Jayaprakash Narayan, shedding light on the post-Independence era.
Sonia Gandhi’s Role Under Question
Kadri’s letter explicitly mentions that Sonia Gandhi deputed representatives to retrieve these papers from NMML. This claim, though not officially addressed by the Congress party, has stirred political discussions about the custodianship of such significant archives.
The historian also pointed out that the matter was discussed during PMML’s Annual General Meeting in February 2024. Members expressed concerns over the institution’s inability to house documents that were intended for public access and research.
The Legacy of NMML and PMML
The NMML, renamed PMML in 2023, was initially established to commemorate Jawaharlal Nehru’s contributions to independent India. However, critics argue that the renaming has diluted its original purpose.
Historians believe that restoring these papers would ensure a more comprehensive understanding of Nehru’s legacy while reinstating PMML as a credible repository of India’s past.
What’s Next? A Call for Transparency
Kadri’s appeal to Rahul Gandhi underscores the importance of addressing the issue publicly. The historian stated, “Returning these papers will not only honor Nehru’s legacy but also reinforce trust in public institutions.”
This ongoing debate highlights a broader issue: the need for policies ensuring the preservation of India’s historical archives. As Rahul Gandhi navigates this challenge, the resolution of the controversy could set a precedent for how such matters are handled in the future.
Leave a Reply