14-06-2023 : Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge strongly criticized the arrest of Tamil Nadu Minister V Senthil Balaji by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and accused the Narendra Modi-led government of engaging in “political harassment and vendetta.” Kharge condemned the late-night arrest, labeling it as a deliberate act of intimidation against those who oppose the ruling dispensation.
Expressing his concerns, Kharge stated that the Congress party firmly denounces such actions by the Modi government and views them as attempts to misuse central probe agencies to target political opponents. He emphasized that the opposition will not be deterred or silenced by these blatant moves.
Kharge further asserted that these tactics employed by the government will not succeed in suppressing the opposition’s voice. On the contrary, they will only strengthen their determination and resolve to continue their democratic struggle against the allegedly “anti-people” policies of the Modi government.
The arrest of Balaji by the ED came following raids conducted at his premises in connection with an alleged money laundering case. The opposition party has raised concerns over the timing and motive behind the arrest, viewing it as a deliberate act of political victimization.
Kharge’s statements highlight the ongoing political tensions between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress party, as both sides engage in a war of words over the alleged misuse of government agencies for political gains.