CPI(M) Alleges Central Agencies Used for Political Retaliation by BJP

P Shanmugam, the secretary of CPI(M) in Tamil Nadu, has leveled accusations against the ruling BJP, asserting that central agencies are being harnessed for political retaliation against opposition figures. Shanmugam specifically called out Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for these actions.

Shanmugam expressed strong disapproval regarding the Enforcement Directorate raids at the residences of former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. He claimed these actions target opposition leaders disliked by the current leadership. Shanmugam criticized what he perceives as a 12-year trend of utilizing agencies like the Enforcement Directorate and Income Tax Department for political suppression.

In support of his claims, Shanmugam cited searches conducted at the homes of political figures such as Delhi's former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Jharkhand's Hemant Soren. Recently, several CPI(M) members, including prominent leaders M A Baby and Brinda Karat, were detained, although they were later released. Shanmugam condemned these instances as a threat to democracy and a misuse of independent institutions.

Shanmugam warned of the potential for any political leader to be targeted under this prevailing system, arguing that the current practices amount to a violation of democratic principles and an unlawful use of governmental power.

(With inputs from agencies.)