Ram Setu is matter of faith: Arjun Singh

New Delhi, May 7 (UNI) In a stand that would bring cheer to the BJP camp, veteran Congress leader and Human Resource Development Minister Arjun Singh says the Ram Setu is a matter of faith and there is no justification for creating any controversy on Lord Ram.

Mr Singh has revealed his stand in a biographical book on his life, titled ''Mohin Kahan Vishram'', which is to be released on Friday.

In a comprehensive interview to Mr Kanhaiya Lal Nandan, the editor of the book, the HRD minister says any controversy on Lord Ram can neither have any basis nor can have it any justification.

''This is a matter of our faith. There is no need to consider what others have to think on it,'' he added.

Asked to comment on the original affidavit submitted before the Supreme Court on the Ram Setu, which had put the Centre in a spot, Mr Singh said the ''carelessness of officials'' should be held reponsible for it. ''It should have been suffice enough to say on the Ram Setu that there is no historical evidence for it. Instead, it was said it does not have any history.'' The book carries a picture that shows the veteran Congress leader's devotion to Lord Ram.

On the issue of faith, he said, ''Those who understand the true value of faith will not trifle with it. Those who know the art of using faith play with it. It is on this issue that I disagree. I am not bothered if it makes someone happy or unhappy. I believe in my viewpoint and try to follow it.'' The opponents of Mr Singh view him as a leader who tries to appease Muslims. Asked to comment on this perception, he said, ''I am also a well-wisher of Muslims. If somebody has any objection to it, I canot help it.'' UNI SKS KD ND1955