Congress alleges ₹657 crore IDFC First Bank scam.
Haryana: On Wednesday, the Congress leveled serious allegations against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government regarding the alleged ₹657 crore IDFC First Bank scam. The party claims that the government appointed a “corrupt” IAS officer as the Returning Officer (RO) to ensure the victory of its supported candidate in the March 2024 Rajya Sabha elections.
At a press conference held on this issue, Aftab Ahmed, Deputy Leader of the Congress Legislature Party, and Ashok Arora, former Speaker of the Haryana Assembly, questioned the government’s role. Both leaders alleged that the government has failed to take action against those involved in the matter and is attempting to shield influential individuals.
The Congress leaders claimed that the government’s stance regarding the investigation and subsequent action on the scam is questionable. Ashok Arora specifically asked why no departmental action has been initiated so far against any of the individuals involved in the alleged scam. He stated that this situation suggests the government is trying to limit the scope of the investigation and protect certain individuals.
Arora further remarked that when serious allegations of financial irregularities and administrative misconduct surface, it is the government’s responsibility to conduct an impartial inquiry—free from pressure—and ensure action against the guilty. However, the lack of action in this case raises several questions.
Congress alleges that this entire episode involved not only financial irregularities but also an attempt to influence the electoral process. The party stated that assigning a crucial electoral responsibility to an officer linked to a scam casts serious doubt on the fairness of the democratic process.
During the press conference, the Congress leaders also pointed out a lack of clarity and transparency on the part of the government regarding this matter. They demanded an impartial and independent investigation into the roles of all individuals involved in the alleged scam.
Congress further emphasized that the investigation should not be reduced to a mere formality; instead, accountability must be fixed at all levels. The party demanded that if the role of any officer or employee is found to be suspicious, strict legal and departmental action should be taken against them.
Ashok Arora stated that the government must immediately clarify the situation regarding this matter and disclose the current stage of the investigation. He further alleged that the government is deliberately attempting to suppress the case in order to shield influential individuals.
Congress leaders also emphasized that this matter is not limited merely to a financial scandal but also concerns administrative transparency and the fairness of the electoral process; therefore, the investigation must remain free from any interference.
So far, there has been no detailed response from the government regarding the allegations made by the Congress. However, the issue has sparked intense debate in political circles, and further rhetoric is expected in the coming days.
