Jairam Ramesh Unleashes 'Vendetta Politics' Charge Against Modi-Shah Over Fresh CBI FIR

Well, here we go again, it seems. The political temperature is certainly rising, particularly with the Karnataka elections looming large on the horizon. This time, it's Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh who isn't holding back, directly accusing the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah duo of engaging in what he terms "vendetta politics." It's a strong claim, isn't it?

What exactly has sparked this rather pointed accusation? It all boils down to a fresh First Information Report, or FIR, filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) against another prominent Congress figure: K. C. Venugopal. The charges are quite serious, involving allegations of criminal conspiracy in connection with a sexual assault case that dates all the way back to 2018. One can’t help but notice the timing; it certainly feels, to many, quite deliberate.

Ramesh, speaking to the media, didn't mince words. He outright called the FIR "politically motivated," suggesting it's nothing more than a desperate attempt to malign and intimidate the opposition, especially when crucial state elections are just around the corner. "The Modi-Shah duo," he asserted, "is resorting to vendetta politics as they face certain defeat in Karnataka." It's a bold statement, reflecting a deep-seated distrust in the neutrality of such investigations.

Let's unpack the FIR a little. Originally, this case was registered in Kerala. Fast forward to 2021, and the Kerala High Court decided to transfer the investigation over to the CBI, seemingly in response to specific petitions. Now, the agency has acted, slapping charges under Sections 120B (criminal conspiracy) and 376(2)(k) (rape by a person in a position of authority, or a relative, guardian, or other person who has the care or charge of the woman) of the Indian Penal Code. These are serious allegations, indeed, and the legal process will undoubtedly be complex.

For Ramesh, however, the timing is the key giveaway. He highlighted how the BJP-led central government, through its various agencies, has a consistent track record of targeting opposition leaders just before significant electoral battles. This pattern, he argues, undermines public trust and makes a mockery of independent investigative processes. It truly paints a picture of a political landscape fraught with accusations and counter-accusations, where every action is viewed through a strategic lens.

So, as the political drama continues to unfold, this latest development adds another layer to the ongoing narrative of central agencies being allegedly used as political tools. Whether these charges hold water or are indeed, as Ramesh claims, a case of "vendetta," only time, and perhaps the upcoming election results, will tell. But for now, the debate rages on, fueled by suspicion and political ambition.