New Delhi, July 13: The Congress on Monday launched a sharp political attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing his government of failing to live up to the anti-corruption promise made at the beginning of his tenure. The opposition party alleged that the slogan of “na khaunga, na khane doonga” (neither will I take bribes nor allow others to do so) was merely a political statement and claimed that the reality under the BJP-led government was different.
Congress general secretary and communications in-charge Jairam Ramesh said the Modi government had delivered “minimum governance and maximum cover-ups”, alleging that several controversies and questions surrounding policy decisions had weakened the government’s claims on transparency and accountability.
Ramesh said Prime Minister Modi had taken office in May 2014 with a strong pledge to eliminate corruption from public life, but alleged that subsequent developments showed a different picture.
Congress Questions Modi Government’s Record on Corruption
In a post on social media platform X, Ramesh claimed that the government’s anti-corruption messaging lost credibility after several major controversies emerged. Referring to the 2016 demonetisation exercise, he cited former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s criticism of the move and described it as evidence of policy failure.
The Congress leader alleged that several decisions taken during the Modi era raised questions about financial accountability and governance. He specifically mentioned the merger of the Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation with Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, claiming that it was linked to attempts to cover up alleged financial irregularities.
The allegations have been denied by the BJP, which has repeatedly maintained that the Modi government follows a zero-tolerance approach towards corruption.
Electoral Bonds and Political Funding Row
Ramesh also targeted the now-scrapped electoral bonds scheme, alleging that it created a system where political donations lacked transparency. He claimed the scheme represented a major controversy related to political funding and questioned the manner in which donations were received and disclosed.
The Supreme Court had earlier struck down the electoral bonds scheme, citing concerns related to transparency and voters’ right to information.
The Congress leader further criticised the government over allegations surrounding corporate groups and political connections, referring to the opposition’s previous campaign targeting the relationship between the government and the Adani Group.
Congress Raises Questions Over Major Government Initiatives
Ramesh alleged that several high-profile issues, including the Rafale fighter jet deal and the PM CARES Fund, continued to face questions regarding transparency.
He claimed that institutions responsible for financial oversight had been weakened and referred to audit concerns related to certain government schemes. The Congress leader also alleged irregularities in programmes such as Ayushman Bharat and PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana.
The BJP has consistently rejected such allegations, arguing that opposition parties are attempting to create political controversy without evidence.
Ram Temple Donation Allegations Trigger Political Debate
The Congress leader also referred to recent allegations linked to land transactions and donations connected with the Ram Temple project in Ayodhya. He alleged that issues involving members associated with the BJP-RSS ecosystem had raised concerns among citizens.
The ruling party and temple authorities have rejected allegations of wrongdoing and maintained that all activities related to the temple are being conducted according to established procedures.
Congress Attacks BJP Leaders Over Alleged Controversies
Ramesh further alleged that some BJP-ruled state governments had failed to act despite controversies involving senior leaders.
He referred to allegations concerning Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, claiming that questions remained unanswered regarding certain decisions and transactions.
The Congress leader also accused the BJP of using financial incentives and political pressure to weaken opposition parties.
Examination System and Youth Issues Raised
Ramesh also criticised Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, alleging that the government had failed to address concerns related to examination systems and recruitment processes.
He claimed that issues affecting competitive examinations had caused distress among millions of young aspirants and accused the government of failing to ensure accountability.
Political Battle Over Corruption Narrative Intensifies
The Congress attack comes as both the ruling BJP and opposition parties continue to compete over the issue of corruption and governance. While the BJP highlights actions against corruption and financial crimes as evidence of its commitment to clean governance, the Congress has repeatedly accused the government of selective action and lack of transparency.
The latest remarks by Jairam Ramesh are expected to intensify the political debate over corruption, accountability and governance ahead of upcoming electoral battles.