During a roadshow in Kozhikode, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of defending the electoral bond scheme, which Gandhi labeled as “the biggest corruption scandal.” Referring to PM Modi’s recent interview with ANI, Gandhi highlighted the Prime Minister’s attempt to justify the scheme, which he claimed allowed the BJP to amass significant funds through extortion from Indian businessmen.
PM Modi’s Defense and Supreme Court Ruling
In his ANI interview, PM Modi defended the electoral bond scheme, asserting its role in curbing black money in elections. He dismissed the opposition’s allegations, suggesting that there would be regret once an honest assessment of the scheme is conducted. However, the Supreme Court had earlier deemed the electoral bond scheme unconstitutional in a ruling issued in February.
Accusations of Distraction Tactics
Gandhi accused PM Modi of employing diversionary tactics to deflect attention from pressing issues such as unemployment and inflation. He cited examples like conducting rituals underwater, promising to bring the Olympics to India, and proposing lunar missions, while neglecting to address critical socioeconomic concerns. Gandhi alleged that PM Modi prioritizes safeguarding the interests of wealthy individuals and forgiving their bank loans.
Allegations Against RSS and BJP
Further, Gandhi accused the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and BJP of attempting to undermine and alter India’s Constitution. In contrast, he asserted that the Congress party and the INDIA alliance are committed to preserving the Constitution.
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Rahul Gandhi’s Remarks on Agnipath Scheme
Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi criticized the Agnipath scheme, describing it as an insult to the Indian Army. He pledged to abolish the scheme if the INDIA bloc secures power after the Lok Sabha polls. The Agnipath Yojana, aimed at recruiting youth into the Armed Forces, has drawn criticism from Gandhi, who argues that it undermines the traditional recruitment process and imposes burdensome terms on recruits.