Congress kicks off crowdfunding campaign; critics term it image makeover bid after I-T raids in Odisha

Ahead of the 2024 elections, the Congress party launched a crowdfunding campaign 'Donate for Des' to collect funds for the party on Monday.

While party president Mallikarjun Kharge flagged off the campaign in Delhi, Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) Chief Sarat Patnaik appealed to the people of Odisha to support the drive.

It will continue till December 28 to mark the 138th foundation day of the party. To commemorate the milestone, the party has asked for donations that are a minimum of Rs 138 or multiples like Rs 1,380 or Rs 13,800 and so on from those who are 18 years and older. Once someone makes a payment, they will get a certificate signed by the Congress president.

The physical mode of the campaign, including a door-to-door collection drive, will start on December 28.

All State units have been asked to raise awareness through press conferences and social media. Party workers and volunteers have been given a target to reach at least ten houses in every booth for contributions of Rs 138 and above.

The campaign is said to be inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s Tilak Swaraj Fund in 1920-21.

Meanwhile, some people have raised their eyebrows. Some have even gone on to term it an image makeover drive which has taken a severe beating following the seizure of Rs 350 crore cash from liquor manufacturing firms linked to Congress MP Dhiraj Sahu.

Asked if the allegations are true, Sarat Patnaik said, “It is still not proved that the cash seized in Odisha is black money."