Ahead of the INDIA bloc’s Loktantra Bachao Rally in Delhi, the Congress launched a scathing attack on the BJP, alleging political vendetta through an income tax notice issued to the party. Congress leaders condemned the notice, claiming it was a ploy by the central government to undermine opposition parties ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
Congress spokesperson Jairam Ramesh emphasized the inclusive nature of the rally, stating that it represented a collective effort of around 27-28 parties affiliated with the INDIA jan Bandhan. He accused the Prime Minister of attempting to weaken political and financial opposition parties.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Priyank Kharge accused the BJP of orchestrating a deliberate campaign to disrupt the democratic process and hinder Congress’s electoral prospects. He denounced the income tax notice as part of a larger strategy to stifle opposition voices.
In anticipation of the rally, Delhi Congress chief Arvinder Singh Lovely drew parallels between the BJP government’s actions and the British Raj’s oppressive tactics. He criticized the BJP for allegedly targeting opposition parties and freezing their accounts, equating it to an assault on democracy.
Congress leader DK Shivakumar echoed similar sentiments, accusing the BJP of resorting to authoritarian tactics out of fear of electoral defeat. He condemned the government’s interference in democratic processes and warned of the consequences of stifling opposition voices.
Contrastingly, UP BJP president Bhupendra Chaudhary criticized the INDIA bloc for organizing the rally, dismissing it as a political gimmick aimed at garnering attention. Chaudhary defended the government’s actions, asserting that they were in line with democratic principles and aimed at upholding the rule of law.