BBC has explained the British government’s controversial documentary which accuses then Chief Minister Narendra Modi’s role in the Gujarat riots. According to the BBC, the documentary was prepared after detailed research and India refused to clarify its position despite being given an opportunity to respond to the allegations.
Eyewitnesses and experts of the Gujarat riots were approached for the documentary. The comments of BJP leaders and others are included in the documentary. The BBC also explained that they are committed to highlighting important issues around the world. The BBC’s response comes after the Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly criticized the documentary.
External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had earlier alleged that the documentary against the Prime Minister reflects the continuation of colonial attitudes, is part of a special agenda and is not in line with facts.
Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said he could not agree with the documentary. The British Parliament’s position on the matter is clear. There is no change in that long-standing approach – a Pakistani MP in the British Parliament. Sunak said in response to Imran Hussain’s question
On February 27, 2002, over a thousand people died in the riots that broke out in Gujarat after Karsevakar set fire to a train in Godhra. BBC is the report of the British government team that investigated this. Released in the documentary. It was not publicized until now. According to the report, the attack in Gujarat was a planned attack of genocidal character. The report alleges that others, including Modi, played an active role in neutralizing the police and thereby unleashing the rioters. Jack Straw, the British foreign secretary at the time, interviewed Modi on the BBC during the riots. The documentary has interviews with writer Jill McGivering and others.
Last year, the Supreme Court of India rejected the allegation that Modi was involved in the riots. The report of the investigation team which revealed Modi’s innocence was upheld. Civil rights activist Teesta Setalvad and former DGP R.B. were accused of forging documents to trap Modi. Sreekumar was also arrested.
Opposition leaders including Trinamool Congress leader Derrick O’Brien shared the link of the documentary on social media. Meanwhile, the central government has not taken a decision on banning documentaries from social media like YouTube in India. BBC has started broadcasting a documentary series on Modi called ‘India: The Modi Question’ last day. The next part of the two-part documentary will air on January 24.
