'Gandhi was willing to offer PM post to Jinnah'

Even as the country was set for partition just before 1947, Mahatma Gandhi toured all over the country to try and quell a number of communal riots and tension, because it was something that was needed to be done, said Rajmohan Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi’s grandson. 

“At the height of this activity he was lonely, on his own. However, he did what he was to,” said Gandhi. He was speaking at the launch of the book, ‘Mahatma Gandhi Eternal Inspiration,’ and the unveiling of a Gandhi Medallion here on Sunday.

Rajmohan talked about Gandhi’s efforts to prevent the imminent partition of the country, saying he was willing to offer the prime ministership of the country to Muhammad Ali Jinnah. This proposal was, however, outright rejected by the Indian National Congress and was frowned upon by Lord Mountbatten. On the occasion, Gandhi memorabilia such as his charaka (spinning wheel) and his working desk were also released.

“Mahatma Gandhi Eternal Inspiration’ is authored by Bharat M Mehta, managing
director, Barton, Sons and Co Pvt Ltd, while the Gandhi Medallion was designed by his company. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw of Biocon, P A Nazareth, former diplomat and author on Gandhi, were also present.