PM Modi Breaks His Silence Over Electoral Bonds, Responds To Allegations Of ED Misuse

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed the scrapping of the electoral bonds scheme by the Supreme Court, emphasising that his government's implementation of the scheme has made sources of political funding transparent.

He rejected the notion that this development was a setback, arguing that it has actually brought transparency to political funding as per a report by The Indian Express.

Modi highlighted the importance of knowing the sources of funding in elections, stating that before the scheme was introduced, this information was not readily available.

He stated, “Today Modi has created election documents; that’s why you can search about it. You can find out who gave the money and who received it. Otherwise, no one knows where the money came from. Elections happened before too… Today, you know these details through election documents. Every issue may have some flaws. But if these flaws are fixed, it can be corrected."  

Responding to allegations of misuse of central agencies against opposition parties, Modi asserted, “Regardless of the party, the process is the same. ED cannot initiate any case on its own; various departments need to file the cases first, then ED takes action… The PMLA law has existed since before, but they did not use it."

He added, "Over 150 court cases were filed to exempt the PMLA law, and they even went to the Supreme Court to remove or retain an officer. They used the judiciary as a weapon because they know Modi’s actions against corruption won’t stop. They think they can stop these organisations through the courts.”

On a personal note, Modi shared his spiritual experience at the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, describing it as a profound moment in his life.

Regarding broader political themes, Modi advised the opposition Congress to rely on its seasoned leaders to regain strength and relevance.

Modi also discussed his candidature, stating that he did not plan to contest elections this time but was asked by the party to do so.

When asked about his expectations in Tamil Nadu, Modi said he respects the state's tradition, culture, and language and does not view it solely from a vote-motive perspective.