"The Congress Party is currently experiencing financial constraints following a penalty of ₹200 crore imposed by the Income Tax authorities, which has led to the freezing of its funds."
In New Delhi, Rahul Gandhi, a
prominent figure within the Congress, affirmed today that the party is
committed to taking firm actions against individuals undermining democracy,
especially "when there is a change in government." This assurance
comes in light of a substantial ₹1,800 crore income tax notice characterized as
"tax terrorism." The recent tax notice covers assessment periods from
2017-18 to 2020-21 and includes penalties and interest fees.
Mr. Gandhi articulated on the microblogging platform X, "There will
certainly be repercussions against those disrupting democracy when the
government undergoes a transition. These actions will be executed in a manner
that dissuades any future occurrences of such misconduct. That is my
assurance."
Following the imposition of a ₹200 crore penalty and the freezing of its
funds by Income Tax authorities, the Congress is grappling with financial
constraints, with no respite from the high court. The party is poised to
escalate the matter to the Supreme Court, just weeks before the Lok Sabha
elections.
Accusing central agencies like the income tax department of aligning
with the BJP, Mr. Gandhi emphasized the Congress's readiness to engage in a
protracted legal battle to challenge the tax demands. Congress leader Ajay
Maken highlighted the necessity for the BJP to disclose its income tax details,
considering the significant donations it has received over the years.
Echoing similar sentiments, Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh
urged the tax department to demand ₹4,617.58 crore from the BJP, citing alleged
breaches of income tax regulations. Emphasizing transparency in political
funding, Ajay Maken underscored the obligation of political parties to furnish essential
donor details in Form 24A, claiming discrepancies in the BJP's submissions to
the Election Commission.
Mr. Ramesh implicated the BJP in an "electoral bonds scam,"
purportedly amassing ₹8,200 crore through illicit means. Despite attempts to
financially debilitate the Congress, Mr. Ramesh affirmed the party's
resilience, stating, "We refuse to succumb to pressure."