New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an interview with news agency ANI on Monday, criticized the Supreme Court’s decision to scrap electoral bonds in February, stating that it is a move that “everyone will regret when there is honest reflection” and has “completely pushed the country towards black money.”
The Prime Minister defended the electoral bonds scheme launched by his government, asserting that it aimed to combat the use of ‘black money’ in election campaigns. He clarified that he never claimed it to be a perfect solution, but rather a step towards transparency in political funding.
Addressing concerns about his party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), being the largest beneficiary of electoral bonds, Mr. Modi pointed out that a significant portion of the funds from these bonds went to parties other than the BJP, with 63 percent being directed elsewhere.
Responding to allegations from the opposition, the Prime Minister dismissed claims that the political landscape is unfairly tilted in favor of the ruling party. He defended recent changes in election laws, emphasizing the need for transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
Mr. Modi also criticized the Congress party’s manifesto for the upcoming election, labeling it as detrimental to the country’s economy and aspirations, particularly for first-time voters.
On the topic of possible investment by Elon Musk’s Tesla, Inc. in India, the Prime Minister expressed his support for such initiatives but stressed the importance of localizing products to reflect the essence of the country’s culture and values.
