The freezing of Congress’s bank accounts was described by Congress Party as a strategic maneuver. They alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi aimed at undermining the party’s prospects for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections. The party leadership voiced their grievances on Thursday, asserting their lack of financial resources and inability to kick-start their electoral campaign during this crucial juncture. Meanwhile, they observed a surge in spending by the BJP across the nation, which they noted as unprecedented.

Demanding that Congress be granted access to its bank accounts, the party highlighted its recent receipt of an income tax notice dating back to 1994, during the tenure of the late Sitaram Kesari as the party’s treasurer, which they interpreted as evidence of a sinister conspiracy against them.

Expressing concerns over the party’s financial predicament, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge emphasised the impossibility of contesting elections without adequate financial backing. He also took a dig at PM Modi, pointing out disparities in election outcomes globally, implying that such overwhelming victories should not occur in India.

Sources revealed that eight of the party’s eleven accounts have been frozen, with Party Treasurer Ajay Maken expressing astonishment at the disproportionate measures taken against them. He cited a month-long delay in submitting the 2017-18 accounts, which should only result in a nominal fine under the Income Tax Act, contrasting sharply with the significant lien imposed on Congress.

Sonia Gandhi highlighted what she termed a “systematic attempt” to financially cripple Congress, emphasizing the party’s resilience in the face of adversity. Kharge lamented the lack of a level playing field, pointing out BJP’s dominance in media advertising and air transport.