ACB Raids on Ex-Minister's Businesses Ignite Political Firestorm in Rajasthan
The Anti-Corruption Bureau conducted searches on January 13. Their target was business establishments in Banswara. These businesses have links to former minister Mahendrajeet Singh Malviya. This action has now sparked a major political confrontation. The ruling BJP and the opposition Congress are locked in a sharp war of words.
Congress Alleges Political Vendetta After Malviya's Exit
The Congress party has made a strong allegation. They claim the ACB raids followed a specific sequence of events. Mahendrajeet Singh Malviya recently left the BJP. He then held a meeting with Congress leaders on January 11. Congress suggests the timing is not a coincidence. They see it as a targeted action.
Malviya's political journey adds context. He switched from the Congress to the BJP in February 2024. This move happened just ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. His recent exit from the BJP has now put him back in the spotlight.
Family Accuses BJP of Misusing Agencies
Resham Malviya, the wife of the former minister, spoke to the media. She accused the BJP government of a clear misuse of power. She stated that investigative agencies are being weaponized. Their target is her husband, specifically after he left the party.
"This is nothing new for the BJP," she conveyed on his behalf. "The use of official agencies against those in opposition is their pattern." The Times of India attempted to contact Malviya directly. He was not available for comment. His responses were relayed through his wife.
Opposition Leaders Decry Erosion of Democratic Norms
Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully voiced serious concerns. He drew parallels between central and state agencies. "ED and CBI by the Centre and ACB by the state are being deployed in the same pattern," Jully said. He warned that such actions turn democracy into a joke.
Despite the support, Congress has issued a clarification. They stated that Malviya has not yet been formally cleared to rejoin the party. This indicates a cautious approach from the opposition.
Government Hints at More Action, BJP Remains Silent
Jogaram Patel, the minister for parliamentary affairs and law, responded to queries. He told TOI to "wait for some time." This statement suggests further developments may follow the initial raids.
Sources close to the government indicated a likely second phase. More searches could be on the horizon. Additionally, old corruption-related cases might be reopened. This points to a sustained investigative push.
The BJP has maintained official silence on one key point. The party has not yet issued any statement regarding Malviya's exit from its ranks. This silence is notable amidst the growing political noise.
The ACB's action in Banswara has clearly opened a new front. It has intensified the ongoing political rivalry in Rajasthan. All eyes are now on the next steps from both the investigation and the political parties involved.
