PM Modi and Congress Clash Over 'ATM' Allegations Amidst Election Tensions

The Congress and BJP exchange accusations over 'ATM' remarks, with Congress leader Udit Raj criticizing PM Modi's statements and raising concerns over electoral bonds. BJP supports Modi, alleging Congress used state resources for elections, escalating tensions as both parties prepare for upcoming votes.

Senior Congress leader Udit Raj criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's accusations against the Congress party, branding them as ATM remarks, and highlighting electoral bond issues tied to BJP. During an interaction with ANI, Raj claimed the BJP exploited citizens as ATMs on November 8, 2016, alluding to the demonetisation move.

He argued that the BJP turned the public into its ATM on that date, questioning whether anything surpasses electoral bonds as an ATM for the party. He accused the BJP of systematic financial misconduct through bank lootings, loan waivers of approximately Rs 25 lakhs, and influential figures like Adani and Ambani serving as key financial conduits. 'Has PM Modi validated his claims regarding Karnataka?' he asked, demanding accountability from Modi, while accusing his administration of evading scam investigations due to political control.

In a counter-attack during an election rally at Maharashtra's Akola, Prime Minister Modi charged Congress and the Gandhi family with using states under their governance, such as Karnataka, as ATMs. He accused the Congress of plundering Rs 700 crores from liquor sellers in Karnataka under the guise of elections in Maharashtra, predicting further misuse of state resources should Congress triumph in upcoming elections.

Backing Modi's statements, former Karnataka Chief Minister and BJP stalwart BS Yediyurappa claimed that Congress misappropriated funds, reallocating them for their Maharashtra assembly campaign. Yediyurappa emphasized his belief in the validity of Modi's assertions against Congress.

(With inputs from agencies.)