Congress Adopts Multi-Tiered Approach In Crowdfunding Drive, Seeks Contributions Of ₹138, ₹1,380, And ₹13,800

The Congress president, Mallikarjun Kharge, emphasized the importance of public donations over reliance on the affluent, stating that depending on the rich entails following their policies. This remark was made during the launch of the party’s ‘Donate for Desh’ campaign aimed at raising funds for the upcoming general election.

The campaign, initiated as the Congress marks its 138th year, underscores a commitment to champion the rights of marginalized communities and oppose a government favoring the affluent.

Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s ‘Tilak Swaraj Fund,’ the crowdfunding initiative offers various contribution options, with Congress leaders urging people to support the cause. Despite the Congress facing financial challenges and allegations of being cash-strapped, the party intends to mobilize support through online channels initially, followed by door-to-door outreach by volunteers.

In response, the BJP dismissed the campaign, accusing the Congress of seeking funds after allegedly looting the country for 60 years. BJP leader Amit Malviya claimed that the initiative is a ploy to divert attention from a significant cash discovery at the premises of Congress MP Dhiraj Sahu.

The BJP asserted that funds raised might end up benefiting the Gandhis, criticizing the campaign as a potential means to solicit illicit funds.

The backdrop includes Income Tax department raids on an Odisha-based distillery firm linked to Dhiraj Sahu’s family, unearthing a substantial cash stash. The Congress distanced itself from Sahu’s business, emphasizing no association with the financial discoveries. The political exchange reflects the contrasting perspectives on the Congress’s fundraising efforts and raises questions about the transparency and intentions behind the ‘Donate for Desh’ campaign.