Congress leader Rahul Gandhi made a significant donation to the party’s crowdfunding campaign, emphasizing his support for an inclusive and progressive India. This move, part of the party’s initiative named “Donate for Desh,” aims to bolster resources ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
In a social media post, Mr. Gandhi urged individuals to participate in safeguarding India’s core values and shared a video of his contribution to the campaign, although the exact amount remained undisclosed.
Engaging with Congress treasurer Ajay Maken, Mr. Gandhi inquired about the anticipated funds, emphasizing the importance of active participation from various party segments, urging entities like the Youth Congress, NSUI, Mahila Congress, and All India Professional Congress to contribute substantially.
Highlighting the campaign’s progress, Mr. Maken divulged that Maharashtra led in contributions, trailed by Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Jairam Ramesh, AICC General Secretary, notably donated ₹1.38 lakh, echoing the significance of supporting a liberal, diverse, and constitutional democracy amid a political landscape dominated by electoral bonds.
Mr. Maken further shared campaign details, acknowledging the ₹1.45 crore raised and extending gratitude to contributors. He outlined the leading donor states, showcasing Maharashtra’s significant contribution and applauding the surge in donations from states like Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Karnataka.
The nationwide crowdfunding campaign, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s “Tilak Swaraj Fund” of 1920-21, invites donations starting from ₹138 or its multiples. The initiative aims to fortify the party’s foundation, promoting equal opportunities and resource distribution across India.
In response, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the Congress, alleging an attempt to divert public funds towards the Gandhis, referencing a recent cash seizure during the income-tax department’s raids linked to a Congress MP-associated company.
The Congress, in contrast, sees this initiative as an effort to bolster its grassroots support, echoing Mahatma Gandhi’s principles while positioning itself for the upcoming elections in 2024.
Sources By Agencies
