Congress Rally

1. Congress links income tax notice to political motives before INDIA bloc’s Delhi rally.
2. The party underscores Loktantra Bachao Rally’s broader aim to protect democracy.
3. The rally aims to unite 27-28 parties under the INDIA bloc for democratic preservation.

New Delhi, March 30: Ahead of the INDIA bloc’s Loktantra Bachao Rally in Delhi, the Congress raised concerns over an income tax notice it received recently, attributing it to political motives aimed at undermining the party’s stance in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Opposition’s Perspective

  • Loktantra Bachao Rally: Congress emphasized that the rally isn’t specific to any individual but aims to safeguard democratic principles. It highlighted the participation of numerous parties within the INDIA bloc, asserting unity in the opposition’s stance.
  • Pre-election Tactics: Party leaders condemned the income tax notice as an attempt by the ruling government to impede the democratic process. They alleged that such measures were intended to hinder the Congress from securing a decisive victory in the elections.
  • Arrests and Allegations: The party criticized recent arrests of opposition figures, citing instances like Arvind Kejriwal’s detention, portraying it as an assault on democracy akin to the colonial era. Such actions, they argued, reflected an authoritarian approach towards dissent.

Congress Leaders’ Responses

  • Confidence in Victory: Despite challenges, Congress leaders expressed confidence in their prospects in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, reiterating their commitment to democracy and the party’s electoral success.
Also Read: Restrictions on Lok Sabha Election Campaigns Imposed by Arambai Tenggol: Guidelines and Restrictions

BJP Flags ‘Internal Conflicts’

In contrast, the BJP raised concerns regarding the INDIA bloc rally, highlighting what it perceives as internal discord among the opposition parties participating in the event.

BJP’s Perspective

  • Internal Disputes: BJP representatives emphasized purported disagreements and uncertainties within the INDIA bloc, particularly regarding seat allocations and candidate selection. They viewed these internal conflicts as indicative of the opposition’s disarray and lack of cohesion.
  • Skepticism on Congress’ Viability: BJP leaders expressed skepticism about the Congress’ electoral prospects, citing unresolved issues such as candidate nominations in key constituencies like Amethi and Raebareli, which they interpreted as signs of weakness.
  • Critique of Rally: Describing the rally as a “Bhrashtachar Bachao Andolan” (Corruption Protection Movement), BJP spokespersons criticized the event’s motives, alleging it served to shield corrupt practices rather than uphold democratic values.

BJP Allies’ Criticisms

  • Dismissal of Rally: Allies of the BJP, including Jitan Ram Manjhi, disparaged the INDIA bloc rally, dismissing it as a futile attempt to deflect attention from the opposition’s internal discord and purported mismanagement.

Participants at INDIA Bloc Rally

Despite criticisms, various prominent leaders are set to participate in the INDIA bloc rally, representing a diverse spectrum of political parties united in their opposition to the ruling government’s policies.

  • Diverse Representation: Notable figures such as Champai Soren, Sharad Pawar, Tejashwi Yadav, Sitaram Yechury, Farooq Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti, Akhilesh Yadav, Tiruchi Siva, Derek O’Brien, among others, are slated to attend, symbolizing a collective front against perceived threats to democratic principles.

The rally, therefore, assumes significance as a platform for diverse voices to converge and assert their commitment to safeguarding democratic values amidst growing political tensions.