Image: PTI
In a scathing rebuke aimed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, alongside party presidents Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, launched a fierce attack on the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the freezing of the party’s bank accounts. Addressing a rare joint press conference, Sonia Gandhi asserted that PM Modi has orchestrated a “systematic effort” to financially debilitate the Congress.
“The issue at hand is gravely serious, not only affecting the Indian National Congress but also undermining democracy itself. PM Modi is engaged in a deliberate campaign to weaken the financial foundation of the Indian National Congress,” Sonia Gandhi declared.
Alleging a dual assault on electoral integrity and opposition finances, Sonia Gandhi highlighted the issue of electoral bonds alongside the financial constraints imposed on the principal opposition party. “Publicly collected funds are being seized, and our accounts are being drained forcibly. Despite these daunting challenges, we are steadfast in upholding the efficacy of our electoral campaign,” she emphasized, condemning the actions as unprecedented and undemocratic.
Echoing Sonia Gandhi’s sentiments, Mallikarjun Kharge characterized the situation as a “dangerous game” and demanded a level playing field for political contests. He referenced the Supreme Court’s ruling on electoral bonds, labelling them illegal and unconstitutional while accusing the ruling party of amassing vast sums through this scheme. Kharge deplored the freezing of the main opposition party’s bank accounts as part of a concerted effort to undermine fair electoral competition.
Asserting the imperative of impartial elections in a democracy, Kharge emphasized the need for autonomy in electoral processes. He criticized the perceived influence of governmental bodies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Income Tax Department, citing recent revelations regarding electoral bonds’ impact on the country’s reputation.
Kharge further alleged financial improprieties within the BJP government, highlighting luxurious office spaces and extravagant travel expenditures. While refraining from divulging specifics, he hinted at impending revelations and called on constitutional bodies to ensure equitable access to resources for all political parties to uphold the principles of free and fair elections.
In a plea to uphold democratic principles, Kharge urged constitutional institutions to facilitate unhindered access to the Congress party’s bank accounts, emphasizing the necessity of preserving the integrity of the electoral process.
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