Congress Alleges Political Motives as Income Tax Department Freezes Party’s Bank Accounts

The Congress party has claimed that its bank accounts, including those of the Youth Congress, have been frozen by the Income Tax department weeks before the announcement of general election dates. The freeze is reportedly linked to a tax demand of ₹210 crore raised by the Income Tax department. Congress alleges that the move is politically motivated and strategically timed to disrupt the party’s election preparations. Party treasurer Ajay Maken describes the situation as a “disturbing blow to the democratic process” and has taken legal action, seeking justice through the judiciary, media, and public support.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge voices concerns about the timing of the freeze, just ahead of crucial general elections, raising suspicions about the motives behind the Income Tax department’s actions.

सत्ता के नशे में चूर, मोदी सरकार ने लोक सभा चुनाव के ठीक पहले देश की सबसे बड़ी विपक्षी पार्टी – भारतीय राष्ट्रीय कांग्रेस – के Accounts Frozen कर दिए है।

ये लोकतंत्र पर गहरा आघात है।

भाजपा ने जो असंवैधानिक धन इकट्ठा किया है, उसका इस्तेमाल वे चुनाव में करेंगे, लेकिन हमने…

— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) February 16, 2024

Congress party’s Bank account Freezes

Frozen Accounts: The Income Tax department has frozen Congress party’s bank accounts, including those of the Youth Congress, over a tax demand of ₹210 crore.

Political Motivation: Congress claims the move is politically motivated and timed strategically to disrupt election preparations, describing it as a “disturbing blow to the democratic process.”

Legal Action: Party treasurer Ajay Maken reveals that legal action has been initiated, and the matter is currently before the income tax appellate tribunal.

Impact on Operations: The freezing of accounts affects the party’s ability to meet various financial obligations, including electricity bills, staff salaries, and election-related expenses.