Party demands RBI guv’s resignation
SHILLONG: The Congress has slammed the BJP for the demonetisation chaos, calling the move a nuisance which was implemented in a whimsical manner.
During a rally to protest the “demonetisation debacle” here on Wednesday, the Congress also demanded the resignation of RBI Governor Upen Patel while accusing the RBI of working under the instruction of the Centre.
Former Congress MP from Arunachal Pradesh and AICC co-coordinator for Meghalaya Takam Sanjoy hit back at the Centre stating that North East will not be a mute spectator to the whimsical moves of the BJP-led Central Government.
“We will have to fight back, it is not acceptable in a democratic set up and Modi (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) is bypassing democratic norms,” he said.
Speaking to reporters after the protest, he alleged, “The government functionaries headed by the PMO and the RBI have a hidden agenda.”
He added that of the first time the RBI’s autonomy had been infringed by the Government of India. “Demonetisation has to be announced by the Governor of RBI and not by the PM as it is an independent body. Government may only extend its advice,” he said and questioned as to where were the so called black money holders. The former MP said that there was no decline in terrorist activities following demonetisation as claimed by the BJP.
Meanwhile, former Assam minister Assam Rakibul Hussain said the Centre should immediately ensure the withdrawal of money without any restriction.
“Why are ordinary Indians not permitted to withdraw their hard earned money,” he questioned.
He also called for, “Affixation of responsibility and resignation of RBI Governor for the demonetisation mess and economic anarchy and restoration of RBI autonomy as India’s financial regulatory body.”
He also claimed that 120 people have lost their lives and demanded that compensation be given to the relatives of victims.
“The Prime Minister does not meet the press and even if he delivers lectures, he keeps people at a distance,” he added.
He alleged that it is the corporate houses and business tycoons the BJP supports, that are behind the black money mess in the country.
Earlier in the day, with the exception of DD Lapang and A.H. Scott Lyngdoh, Congress leaders Ampareen Lyngdoh, A.L. Hek, Sayeedullah Nongrum, John Kharshiing, P.T. Sawkmie and others took part in the gherao of the RBI branch in the city.
