Agency(Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala): In response to claims by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor stated on Wednesday that there is no mention of wealth redistribution or taking personal jewelry from individuals in the Congress party’s manifesto. Tharoor described these allegations as desperate attempts by the BJP to divert attention from their impending defeat in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.
Tharoor emphasized that the accusations, including those of intending to snatch women’s mangalsutras, are baseless and reflect the BJP’s tactic of slinging mud as they face electoral challenges. He responded to Modi’s comments from last week, where the Prime Minister insinuated that Congress plans to redistribute wealth and target gold and property, including personal items like mangalsutras, as part of their policy if elected.
Further addressing the controversy surrounding the statements made by Sam Pitroda about an inheritance tax, Tharoor clarified that Pitroda’s views do not represent the party’s official stance and are his personal opinions. He underscored that the official party manifesto, approved by the Working Committee, is the only document reflecting Congress’s intentions and policies.
The Congress leader also countered criticism from Kerala’s Chief Minister who labeled Rahul Gandhi as a “non-serious politician.” Tharoor defended Gandhi’s dedication to understanding and addressing the concerns of Indians, highlighting his extensive Bharat Jodo Yatra as evidence of his commitment.
Shashi Tharoor is currently contesting against BJP’s Rajeev Chandrasekhar for the Thiruvananthapuram seat in the Lok Sabha elections, with all 20 constituencies in Kerala set to vote on April 26. The counting of votes will take place on June 4.