A WhatsApp message sent under the name 'Viksit Bharat Sampark', along with a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has stirred fresh controversy, with the Congress terming the attached PDF as "political propaganda". The WhatsApp message, circulated among Indian users, solicited feedback and suggestions from citizens regarding government schemes and policies.
However, the PDF file attached to the message contains a letter from PM Modi, highlighting initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, Matru Vandana Yojana, and more, while seeking suggestions from the public.
"It is a measure of your trust and support that we could take several historic and major decisions like implementation of GST, abrogation of Article 370, new law on Triple Talaq, Nari Shakti Vandan Act to enhance women's participation in the Parliament, the inauguration of a new Parliament building and strong steps against terrorism and Left-Wing Extremism," the letter states, highlighting key moments under the Modi government.
The Kerala Congress took to social media to voice its concerns regarding the same, stating, "The message talks about taking feedback from Citizens, but the attached PDF is nothing but political propaganda."
Accusing the government of misusing public data, the Congress unit in Kerala labelled the message as part of a campaign for the upcoming general elections. They criticised the letter, alleging that it served as a promotional tool for PM Modi's government under the guise of seeking feedback.
The Congress further questioned WhatsApp's policies regarding political campaigns, stating, "WhatsApp's stated policy prohibits the usage of WhatsApp for political campaigns. If that's the policy, how do you permit a political leader to do propaganda on your platform? Or do you have a separate policy for BJP."
TMC's Mahua Moitra Slams BJP's WhatsApp Campaign
The government's vision for social and economic development under the 'Viksit Bharat by 2047' initiative has been a focal point for the BJP. Meanwhile, other opposition leaders like Trinamool Congress's Mahua Moitra have criticised the WhatsApp campaign, particularly in light of the implementation of the model code of conduct.
Moitra condemned the use of taxpayers' money for sending PM Modi's letter under the guise of seeking feedback, suggesting that it amounted to a misuse of public resources for political purposes.
"MCC came into effect today at 1500 hrs after EC announcement. Just received shameless campaign message from “Viksit Bharat” at taxpayer expense plugging PM letter at 20:17 hrs. Please send from BJP party account," she remarked on X.
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