Income Tax Department Freezes Congress Party Bank Accounts, Party responses

The recent freezing of four main bank accounts belonging to the Indian National Congress by the Income Tax department has sparked a fiery response from the party, with leaders condemning the move as an assault on Indian democracy. Congress Treasurer Ajay Maken revealed that the accounts, including those of the Indian Youth Congress, were frozen on the grounds of an Income Tax demand amounting to ₹210 crore for the fiscal year 2018-19, which coincided with an election year.

Expressing deep concern over the timing of this action, Maken emphasized that the freezing of accounts just weeks before the Lok Sabha elections severely hampers the party’s ability to function effectively. He highlighted the practical ramifications, stating that the party currently lacks the funds necessary to carry out essential activities such as paying salaries and settling bills.

Congress Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha provided some relief by announcing that the party had approached the Income Tax Appellate Authority (ITAT), which granted interim relief by allowing the party to operate its accounts with only a lien imposed on them. However, the tribunal will deliberate further on the matter in its upcoming session.

The gravity of the situation was not lost on senior Congress leaders, with Mallikarjun Kharge condemning the move as a deep assault on Indian democracy. Kharge accused the Modi government of wielding its power to stifle the opposition’s ability to function freely, especially in the run-up to crucial elections.

Rahul Gandhi echoed Kharge’s sentiments, asserting that the Congress party’s strength lies not in monetary power but in the support of the people. He pledged unwavering resistance against any attempts to undermine democracy and reiterated the party’s commitment to upholding democratic values.

Shashi Tharoor, too, expressed shock and dismay at the Income Tax department’s actions, denouncing them as shameful and antithetical to the principles of democracy.

The broader implications of this incident extend beyond mere financial constraints faced by the Congress party. It raises concerns about the fairness of electoral processes and the government’s commitment to upholding democratic norms. By targeting the main opposition party’s financial resources, the government risks undermining the integrity of the democratic process and stifling dissenting voices.

As the political landscape heats up in the lead-up to the elections, it is imperative that all parties uphold the principles of democracy and ensure a level playing field for all stakeholders. Any attempts to manipulate or suppress political opposition must be met with resolute resistance and condemnation from all quarters. Ultimately, the health of India’s democracy depends on the vigilance and activism of its citizens and leaders alike.