PM Modi responds to opposition's 'BJP uses central agencies' charge
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has categorically denied allegations made by opposition parties accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of misusing central agencies to target political rivals.
In an interview with Hindi media outlet Hindustan, he clarified that only 3% of cases investigated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) involve politicians.
He further stated that the remaining 97% cases are linked to officials and criminals, not politicians.
Context
Why does this story matter?
For a long time, the opposition has accused the Modi-led government of using central agencies such as the ED and Central Bureau of Investigation to target dissidents, especially ahead of polls.
The recent arrests of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren have added more weight to the opposition's claims.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Kejriwal and Soren's Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), are members of the opposition bloc, Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA).
Anti-corruption
PM Modi highlights government's anti-corruption efforts
During the interview, PM Modi emphasized his administration's commitment to combating corruption, stating it has been a top priority for the past decade.
He refuted opposition claims that punitive actions are selectively taken against political opponents or in states not governed by the BJP.
"Steps are being taken even in states where the BJP is in power," he asserted during the interview, highlighting his government's impartial approach towards corruption.
Accusations
PM Modi dismisses accusations of targeting political corruption
The prime minister also dismissed the notion that his government is solely focused on political corruption.
He stated, "The narratives you have heard—that it is only political corruption that we are after—are being circulated by people who are under the sword of investigative agencies."
Following Kejriwal's arrest on March 21 in a money laundering probe linked to the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy, the INDIA bloc launched a fierce attack on the BJP, claiming it acted out of fear.
AAP
Kejriwal moves Supreme Court against his arrest
Kejriwal has moved the Supreme Court after the Delhi High Court dismissed objections to his arrest.
He has been accused of playing a significant role in both utilizing and hiding alleged illicit funds generated through the excise policy "scam."
The court is expected to hear Kejriwal's petition challenging his arrest on Monday.
Besides Kejriwal, former deputy Manish Sisodia is in jail in connection with the case. Sanjay Singh, who was arrested in the same case, is out on bail.