Lok Sabha 2024: Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh on Thursday criticized the BJP-led Central government for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent statement about corrupt individuals going to jail, suggesting humorously that members of Modi’s cabinet might have a “pleasant reunion” in Tihar jail after the Lok Sabha polls.
“Inquiring about whether those accountable for supervising this legalized corruption will also face consequences, Jairam Ramesh suggested humorously on X that the Modi Cabinet might enjoy a delightful reunion in Tihar, referencing the #ElectoralBondScam.”
Jairam Ramesh leveled accusations of corruption against the government, highlighting Prime Minister Modi’s assurance that corrupt individuals would face imprisonment. He pointed out the alleged corruption in the #PayPM Scam, delineating four channels: pre-paid bribes (Chanda Do, Dhanda Lo), post-paid bribes (Theka Lo, Rishvat Do), post-raid extortion (Hafta Vasuli through ED/IT Raids), and fake companies.
The Prime Minister has given a "guarantee" that the corrupt will go to jail. Remember that the #PayPM Scam saw four channels of corruption:
— Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) April 11, 2024
1. Pre-paid Bribes: Chanda Do, Dhanda Lo
2. Post paid Bribes: Theka Lo, Rishvat Do
3. Post-raid Extortion: Hafta Vasuli through ED/IT… pic.twitter.com/qS4GWRb17g
PM Modi, speaking at a rally in Rajasthan on Thursday, emphasized the strict action being taken against corruption nationwide, prompting opposition alliances against him. He contrasted his stance against corruption with those who advocate for protecting corrupt individuals, asserting that regardless of the threats posed against him, corrupt individuals will be held accountable and sent to jail. He also criticized the previous Congress-led state government for its alleged involvement in recruitment exam paper leaks, accusing the party of being deeply entrenched in corruption and exploiting opportunities even in youth employment.
PM Modi further alleged that Congress leaders were involved in the destruction of temples and encroachment of their lands, citing instances of stone-pelting during a Ram Navami procession. He criticized what he referred to as the “shehzada” (prince) of the Congress for making statements abroad questioning India’s identity as a nation and demanding proof of surgical strikes conducted by India.