Ramdev:history won't forgive PM for "political sin"

HARIDWAR: (PTI) With the government toughening its stand against Baba Ramdev, the yoga guru on Tuesday said he forgave the Prime Minister for the crackdown on his agitation but history will not forgive him for the "political sin" he committed.

"The Prime Minister termed it (the police action) unfortunate. In a way he has accepted his sin. Since he has accepted his sin, I have forgiven him," Ramdev told reporters here.

"I have personally forgiven him but the history of not only India but the whole world will never forgive him for the political sin he committed. He has tainted democracy," Ramdev, who is continuing his satyagraha here, said.

The yoga guru was reacting to Singh's remarks yesterday that "it was unfortunate that the operation had to be conducted but quite honestly, there was no alternative."

Baba Ramdev also attacked the Congress for ridiculing his escape in a women's dress from the ground, saying even Maratha warrior Shivaji had escaped in disguise to secure the nation.

"If anybody saves his life for securing the nation, they won't like it. Even Shivaji had saved his life. But these people do not accept Shivaji as their ideal. Their target is to protect terrorists and kill Baba."

Congress general secretary Janardan Dwivedi had yesterday said, "A satyagrahi does not run away stealthily wearing women's dress. Satyagrahi is always ready to sacrifice his life".

Ramdev also alleged there could be "five kinds of conspiracies" to eliminate him at the Ramlila ground from where he was evicted after his talks with the Government to end the fast failed.