Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, along with Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, convened a press conference addressing the recent freeze on Congress’ bank accounts by the Income Tax (IT) department. Kharge expressed concern over the government’s attempt to render the Congress financially incapacitated, undermining the principles of free and fair elections. He emphasized the imperative of releasing the frozen accounts to ensure equitable participation in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
Ensuring Fair Elections Amidst the Electoral Bonds Controversy
As the Lok Sabha elections loom, Kharge stressed the significance of conducting elections impartially, with all political parties enjoying equal opportunities. He condemned any undue influence exerted on independent institutions such as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and IT. Recent revelations regarding electoral bonds have tarnished the nation’s reputation, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Electoral Bonds and Unequal Financial Leverage
Under the contentious electoral donation scheme, deemed illegal and unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, the BJP has amassed significant funds while the Congress finds its accounts frozen. This unequal financial footing jeopardizes the fairness of electoral competition and reflects a dangerous manipulation of power dynamics by the ruling party.
Call for Transparency and Fair Play
Kharge refrained from detailing allegations against the BJP’s financial dealings, citing ongoing Supreme Court scrutiny. He urged constitutional bodies to uphold the principles of free and fair elections by unfreezing Congress’ bank accounts, emphasizing that political parties are not subject to income tax scrutiny.
A Legal Tussle Over Frozen Accounts
The freezing of Congress’ accounts by the IT department on February 16 prompted swift legal action. While the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal later lifted the freeze, Congress leaders raised concerns about the department’s demand for a hefty sum of Rs 210 crore in taxes. Despite legal challenges, the Delhi High Court upheld the IT department’s decision, underscoring the need for judicial independence.
Democracy Under Threat: Congress’ Struggle for Financial Freedom
Congress leaders, including Ajay Maken, highlighted the severity of the situation, asserting that democracy itself is at stake. The forcible seizure of funds impedes the party’s ability to campaign effectively, with electoral bonds disproportionately benefiting the BJP. This struggle, they emphasized, transcends party lines and is integral to preserving democratic ideals.
Sonia Gandhi’s Concerns and Determination
Sonia Gandhi condemned attempts to cripple the Congress financially, branding it an assault on democracy. The prolonged inability to access funds impedes the party’s essential functions, posing a threat to the democratic process.
Rahul Gandhi’s Critique of Judicial Silence
Rahul Gandhi lamented the lack of response from courts and the Election Commission regarding the freezing of Congress’ accounts, questioning the integrity of the democratic process in the absence of institutional intervention.
Jairam Ramesh’s Allegations of Financial Interference
Jairam Ramesh underscored the alarming nexus between electoral funding and lucrative contracts, hinting at widespread financial malfeasance. He pledged to unveil pertinent data soon, further shedding light on this issue.
