TV
Senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad held a press conference on Wednesday, launching a scathing attack on Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in connection with the ongoing National Herald case.
Allegations of Misappropriation of Public Property
Prasad criticized the Congress for claiming the right to protest but argued that they do not have the right to "misappropriate public property" linked to the National Herald. He stressed that the National Herald was established in 1937 with 5,000 shareholders, and it was never the personal property of the Nehru family.
Transfer of Shares and Property Acquisition
Prasad alleged that the transfer of Rs 9 crore worth of shares was merely a smokescreen. He claimed that following the transfer, Young India, 76% of which was owned by Sonia and Rahul Gandhi, acquired the entire property of Associated Journals Limited. This property, which includes assets across various cities, is allegedly worth thousands of crores. He questioned the claim that Young India was a non-profit organization, noting that no charitable work had been done.
Legal Scrutiny and Upcoming Court Hearing
Prasad clarified that the matter is under legal investigation. He stated that charges will be filed following the investigation, and the court hearing is scheduled for April 25. He pointed out that despite their legal battles, Sonia and Rahul Gandhi are out on bail and have only been granted the concession of appearing through their lawyer, not personally in court.
Historical Context and Concerns Raised by Congress Leaders
Prasad delved into the history of the National Herald, citing Congress leaders who had expressed concerns about the newspaper's direction. He referenced Sardar Patel, who had raised doubts about taking money from the public for the paper. He also mentioned Chandra Bhanu Gupta, the former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, who had stated that the paper, intended to represent the nation, had become the voice of the Nehru family.
Advertisement Expenditure and Business Transformation
Prasad further highlighted a significant advertisement expenditure following the share transfer, worth Rs 25–26 crore. He lamented that a newspaper initially created to support the freedom struggle had now transformed into a private business.
BJP's Demand for Accountability
Prasad concluded by demanding answers from Sonia and Rahul Gandhi regarding the "thousand crore worth of property" allegedly seized by them. He questioned whether the law would take action in the matter.
(With IANS inputs)
