In what comes as an embarrassment for the Congress party, a picture of former PM Indira Gandhi meeting underworld don Karim Lala has surfaced on the web. As per reports, the picture dates back to 1973, notably years before Indira Gandhi imposed Emergency. Former actor and politician Harindranath Chattopadhyay, who was a family friend of the Gandhis, is also seen in the picture.
A political ruckus had erupted after Shiv Sena leader Sanay Raut said that Gandhi used to meet don Karim Lala. Congress leaders Milind Deora and Sanjay Nirupam had condemned the statement made by Raut and asked him to withdraw his "ill-informed" remarks that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi met underworld don Karim Lala.In the early 1970s, it was well-known that Karim Lala had a big hold on the unorganised Bollywood that was flourishing with his help.
Meanwhile, BJP leader Devendra Fadanavis has launched a scathing attack on the Congress. and has sought a clarification from the party. “Senior leaders of Congress must answer the people, association with criminals because of whom attacks have happened in Mumbai, I think there is nothing more defaming than this, Congress must clarify,” Fadanavis said.