Dr HV Hande, who took part in the Quit India protests as a college student in Mangalore, and later worked under Rajaji as a functionary of the Swatantra party and in the 1980s as a Health Minister in the Cabinets headed by Chief Minister MG Ramachandran, celebrated his 99th birthday on Friday. People from all walks of life, including politicians, judges, and doctors called on him. Amid wishes that poured in, Dr Hande answered a few questions from T Muruganandham. Edited excerpts:
What are some of your unforgettable moments with leaders like Rajaji, MGR and Kamaraj?
When I was heading the state unit of the Swatantra Party in the 1970s, Rajaji wanted me to issue a statement on an issue. But I thought it would add strength to DMK, which was then an opponent of the Swatantra party. I agreed hesitantly and was about to enter my car, when Rajaji’s PA, SP Subramanyam, came running, saying Rajaji wanted to have a word.
Rajaji told me, “You did not agree with me in issuing a statement. But agreed on my insistence. You should have had the courage to disagree. Never do anything which your conscience does not allow. You don’t have to give a statement on the issue. I am not compelling you.” I was really amazed that a leader of his stature allowed someone who worked under him to express their wish. I am saying this to imply how Rajaji disliked hero worship.
MGR accorded a lot of respect to the opposition parties. He never allowed anyone to talk disparagingly about the opposition leader and DMK president M Karunanidhi or others. He was a decent politician who won people over through sheer love.
People have not really appreciated the contribution of Kamaraj to Tamil Nadu’s growth. Many key projects, which might have gone to other states, came to Tamil Nadu because the good equation he shared with Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Kamaraj did a lot for infrastructure building during his nine years in power. Kamaraj could achieve this because he could delegate work to the right person.
What is your take on debates in Assembly these days?
It is a little tragic, I would say. A head-on collision with the central government. There is not even a small area of agreement. That will not help the state. It would be better if Chief Minister MK Stalin mends his fences with the centre. We require the help of the union government in several areas.
Who is your greatest icon?
My greatest icon is Dr Ambedkar because he had the foresight to strongly oppose the introduction of Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, stating that it would isolate Jammu and Kashmir. Seventy years later, Ambedkar’s wish was fulfilled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi by abolishing Article 370.