Arjun rejects Sangh demand for apology

HRD Minister Arjun Singh today rejected the RSS demand for an apology for suggesting the organisation’s involvement in Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination and dismissed reports that he was ‘‘posturing’’ for the prime minister’s post.

‘‘As a Congress worker it has been an article of faith for me to fight against all communal forces which I have been doing for the last 45 years. The question of my submitting a written apology to the RSS, therefore, simply does not arise. I am prepared for any sacrifice that I may be called upon to make and will treat it as a great honour for myself,’’ Singh said in a written statement circulated at a press conference here.

Commenting on the legal notice served on him by the RSS Delhi unit on his statement, Singh said: ‘‘This matter will be dealt with by my legal adviser in the appropriate manner and forum.’’