Govt accuses CJP of taking US, Pakistan funds; outfit fires back

Union Minister of State Jitendra Singh accused CJP founders of receiving foreign funds, prompting a sharp rebuttal. Priyank Kharge demanded evidence as the political confrontation widened.

In Short

• Singh says foreign-backed NGOs and deep-state operatives manufacture anti-government narratives
• He defends FCRA as vital for regulating overseas financial channels
• The minister accuses Congress of misinformation over alleged vote chori

Union Minister Jitendra Singh has accused Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke of receiving funds from US-based donors and the party's co-founder Ashutosh Ranka of getting financial support from Pakistani politicians and other handlers to fuel anti-government campaigns in India.

The allegations triggered a sharp response from the CJP, which hit back at the Union Minister, questioning the credibility of statements made by those holding high constitutional and political offices.

Singh claimed that foreign-funded non-governmental organisations (NGOs), deep-state operatives and organisations working against India's interests were coordinating efforts to influence public discourse and manufacture narratives against the government.

"There is sufficient evidence to suggest that these anarchist elements are being funded through unauthorised sources, including anti-India NGOs and organisations operating both within and outside the country. Foreign-funded NGOs, deep-state operatives and anti-India forces are allegedly working together to manufacture and propagate a misleading narrative," Singh said.

Targeting the two CJP founders, the minister said there were serious questions about the sources of funding available to certain activists and self-styled political leaders.

"Dipke has received funds from US-based donors, while Ashutosh Ranka reportedly received financial support from Pakistani politicians and other handlers," he said.

Singh also defended the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), describing it as an important mechanism to regulate foreign funding channels. He argued that those making political allegations should also disclose the sources of their own funding and explain how they mobilise resources for their campaigns.

The minister further accused the Congress of spreading misinformation about electoral processes and raising what he called baseless 'vote chori' allegations to protect the political image of its leadership.

- Ends
With ANI inputs