Sam Pitroda Controversy: Did Congress Promise Wealth Redistribution in Manifesto? Fact-Checking BJP vs Congress

The recent remarks made by Mr. Pitroda about an inheritance tax in the US have influenced the ongoing debate initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi two days ago. The Congress has distanced itself from his remarks, and Mr. Pitroda has clarified his stance, stating that his comments on the US inheritance tax were misrepresented to divert attention from the issues raised by the Prime Minister about the Congress manifesto. The BJP has accused the Congress of planning to seize and redistribute the wealth of Indians, a claim which the Congress denies. They state that their manifesto only pledges to conduct a caste census to gather data and implement affirmative action policies, addressing the growing inequality of wealth and income through policy changes.

Mr. Pitroda emphasized the need for discussions on policies that benefit the people, not just the rich, and highlighted the absence of a federal inheritance tax in the US. He mentioned that some states in the US have inheritance taxes applicable to inherited assets, although such a law does not exist in India. However, the party has taken issue with PM Modi’s speech and filed a complaint with the Election Commission. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh clarified that Mr. Pitroda’s views may not always reflect the official position of the Indian National Congress.

Meanwhile, PM Modi has accused the Congress of having dangerous intentions and promoting policies to seize wealth during and after one’s lifetime.