Cong calls for 'free, fair, independent' probe into Sahara diaries
The purported diaries were recovered from the business house following raids in November 2014 listing the alleged pay-offs to politicians.
New Delhi: Congress on Friday demanded a "free, fair and independent" investigation into the 'Sahara diaries' alleging that the matter was being "hushed up" by the government even though bribery charges have been made against some politicians.
Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala sought to pick holes in the Income Tax Settlement Commission (ITSC) order granting immunity to Sahara group from prosecution and penalty.
The purported diaries were recovered from the business house following raids conducted in November 2014 listing the alleged pay-offs to politicians.
"Modiji claimed that he was a watchman of country's trust and treasure chest. Shocking and scandalous facts in 'Birla' and 'Sahara' papers now require an independent investigation.
"We want that the Prime Minister's credibility should never be in doubt. He should not be worried about ordering an independent probe," he said.
Surjewala alleged that the 'Sahara Group' appears to have gained a concession of not paying income tax on the income of Rs 1,910 crore and received complete immunity from penalty and prosecution.
Raising a number of questions, he said the Modi government should answer as to how the Commission could settle the entire matter of Sahara papers in only 16 days and why it was in a "tearing hurry" to close this entire Sahara issue.
"It is time that Prime Minister Narendra Modi answers these questions to people of India," he said.
"Shockingly, the entire case against Sahara Group is now being sought to be closed in a hush hush and conspiratorial manner with startling speed. This further indicates that Modi Government has 'something to hide' and is in an alarming hurry to brush the entire matter under the carpet," the Congress leader said.