New Delhi, The Congress party has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of engaging in “tax terrorism,” alleging a strategic financial attack through a hefty income tax demand aimed at debilitating the opposition before the Lok Sabha elections.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the Congress highlighted a recent income tax demand of Rs 1,823 crore levied against it as a direct assault on its financial stability ahead of the parliamentary election. Party treasurer Ajay Maken, in a press briefing, claimed the BJP itself has violated income tax laws, suggesting that the IT department should levy a Rs 4,617.58 crore demand against the ruling party for these alleged discrepancies.

Maken criticized the tax department’s approach, stating that it reflects a broader pattern of political targeting, especially against Congress and allied opposition entities. He also pointed out discrepancies in the BJP’s financial disclosures to the Election Commission, accusing them of consistently failing to meet the required standards.

Rahul Gandhi, a senior leader of Congress, responded to the IT notice with a promise of accountability, asserting that post-election changes in government would lead to actions against those undermining democratic principles.

In response to these developments, the Congress announced plans for nationwide protests to contest the tax notice and highlight their grievances against what they perceive as politically motivated financial oppression.