BJP Amplifies Criticism of Congress; Questions Sonia Gandhi's Alleged Ties to Soros

New Delhi, Dec 9 (NationPress) The BJP has ramped up its onslaught against the Congress party, with a specific focus on Sonia Gandhi, concerning her supposed ties to an organization that receives funding from the George Soros Foundation. This organization is accused of supporting narratives that undermine India, notably advocating for the independence of Kashmir.
During a press conference held at the BJP headquarters, spokesperson and Rajya Sabha MP Sudhanshu Trivedi expressed grave concerns about what he termed as "well-orchestrated anti-India campaigns" emerging during significant political periods.
Trivedi remarked, "The Opposition's tendency to disrupt the seamless operation of the House continues unabated. Concurrently, serious, alarming, and crucial issues regarding national security and stability are arising in both national and international media."
He provided examples, noting that on February 3, 2021, a report concerning Indian farmers was published during the Budget Session of January 2021; on July 18, 2021, the Pegasus report surfaced during the Monsoon Session; on January 24, 2023, the Hindenburg report was released just ahead of the Budget Session that commenced on January 31; and on January 17, 2023, the BBC documentary 'India: The Modi Question' was launched on July 19, 2023, alongside a video related to the Manipur violence that appeared a day before the Monsoon Session.
Trivedi further pointed out that during the election campaigns earlier this year, a report regarding COVID-19 vaccines was published on May 10, 2023. He noted that although the Monsoon Session of Parliament concluded on August 9, 2023, a Hindenburg report followed on August 10.
Highlighting the current Winter Session of Parliament, which commenced on November 25, Trivedi alleged that a report by a US attorney targeting an Indian business entity was released on November 20, just days prior.
“Is this merely a coincidence or a coordinated effort?” Trivedi queried, suggesting that such tactics aimed at destabilizing India are becoming increasingly evident.
He mentioned that following the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) report, the focus has now shifted towards the Forum for Democratic Leaders in Asia-Pacific (FDL-AP), a non-profit organization established in 1994 to promote democracy across the region.
Trivedi highlighted that Sonia Gandhi, in her role as chairperson of the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation, also serves as co-chair of the FDL-AP.
He alleged that the content from the forum's publications portrays India negatively, asserting that the nation's democratic framework is in decline while presenting a favorable view of Pakistan.
Trivedi cited, "What it states about India -- 'Turned the system of governance upside down towards sustainable democracy,' insinuating that India's democratic system is crumbling. He contrasted this with what is said about Pakistan -- 'Islam means justice, and justice means right' -- an interview with cricket legend and social-political activist Imran Khan. Furthermore, he referenced statements regarding Kashmir: 'Prospects for peace, justice, and independence in Kashmir,' featuring an interview with Lieutenant General (R) Nishant Ahmad, Director of the Institute of Regional Studies, Islamabad, Pakistan.
Quoting information from the forum's official website, Trivedi claimed it receives financial backing from the Soros Foundation, associated with US businessman George Soros.
Trivedi asserted, "George Soros has publicly committed $1 billion to destabilize the Modi government. Now, everything is falling into place."
On the occasion of Sonia Gandhi's birthday, the BJP also called for her to address this issue in Parliament. “We congratulate her but urge her to allow this matter to be debated in the House,” Trivedi stated.
He added that the BJP had filed a notice under Rule 267 to raise this issue in the House, but alleged that the Opposition is evading sincere discussions.
Trivedi posed three direct inquiries to the Congress party: What is Congress's link with the Forum for Democratic Leaders in Asia-Pacific? Are the anti-India and pro-Pakistan narratives discussed within the forum endorsed by the Congress? Does the Congress high command recognize the Soros Foundation's financial support for the forum and its purported agenda to destabilize India?
He branded this association as "treasonous" and questioned the "friendship" between Congress and George Soros. “With all due respect, what is Sonia Gandhi's role in this?” he inquired.
The BJP's allegations arise amidst increased political friction during the Winter Session of Parliament, as discussions surrounding national security and purported foreign influence take center stage.