Congress Leader Akhilesh Prasad Singh Criticizes Om Birla's Bangladesh Visit as 'Reward' for Silencing Rahul Gandhi
Congress leader Akhilesh Prasad Singh has launched a sharp critique against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla's upcoming visit to Bangladesh, labeling it a "reward" from the central government for not permitting Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to speak in the Lok Sabha. Om Birla is scheduled to travel to Dhaka to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Bangladesh Prime Minister-elect Tarique Rahman, a diplomatic event that has now sparked political controversy in India.
Singh's Allegations on Minority Issues and Government Motives
In an interview with ANI, Singh asserted, "Om Birla must have been rewarded by the government for not allowing the LoP to speak in the Lok Sabha." He further emphasized that while the Indian government engages with Bangladesh's new administration, it should strongly address the atrocities against minority Hindus and work to alleviate tensions in the region. Singh's comments highlight a dual focus on domestic political dynamics and international human rights concerns, urging proactive diplomacy to protect vulnerable communities.
Endorsement of Priyank Kharge's Questions on RSS Legality and Funding
The Congress leader also expressed support for remarks made earlier by Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge, who has raised pointed questions about the legal and financial status of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Kharge described the BJP as a "devil's shadow" and voiced concerns over the RSS's lack of registration, opaque funding sources, and tax compliance issues.
Singh stated, "His question is valid because the RSS hasn't been registered for a long time. Regarding the money issue, it's true that when electoral bonds were introduced, there was some kind of fraud. It evolved a certain party in such a way that a level playing field no longer existed." This endorsement amplifies calls for transparency and accountability within influential organizations, linking electoral finance reforms to broader political fairness.
Kharge's Detailed Critique of RSS Operations and Financial Scrutiny
Earlier, Priyank Kharge questioned why the RSS remains unregistered despite its extensive operations across India and internationally. He argued, "They're unregistered. They don't want to register. All I'm asking is to follow the law of the land. If you're an individual, that does not mean that you should not be registered. Which law says that? You should be registered." Kharge's inquiries delve into the mechanisms of donations, tax payments, and organizational oversight, challenging the RSS's adherence to legal norms.
Citing media reports, Kharge claimed that over 2,500 organisations are involved in funding the RSS, advocating for greater transparency in financial dealings. He referenced RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's statements about the organization functioning on "Guru Dakshina"—traditional offerings to a guru—and questioned whether collecting funds under the RSS's symbolic saffron flag, considered its "guru," exempts it from financial scrutiny. Drawing parallels with religious institutions, Kharge noted that even temple donations undergo audits, asking if the RSS views itself as "above the law."
Kharge further highlighted Bhagwat's past remarks linking the BJP's political success to RSS support, reinforcing his characterization of the BJP as the RSS's "shadow." He concluded, "This is a question the government should be asking," pressing for official inquiry into these matters to ensure democratic integrity and regulatory compliance.
