Congress criticizes PM birthday event spending as wasteful amid economic strain

The state unit of the Indian National Congress has raised concerns about the financial implications of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday celebrations held in Varanasi, arguing that the event represented wasteful expenditure during a period of economic challenges facing the country.

According to allegations made by state Congress chief Ajay Rai, approximately 500 motorcycles were distributed as part of the birthday event festivities. However, Rai contended that the distribution scheme contained problematic conditions, with recipients required to pay ₹700 daily to use the vehicles, effectively negating the gesture as a genuine public benefit.

The Congress leader's assertion highlights ongoing political tensions between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the opposition over government spending priorities. The party has consistently criticized what it characterizes as profligate spending on high-profile events while ordinary citizens grapple with economic difficulties.

The Varanasi event drew scrutiny from opposition quarters, which questioned both the timing and the structure of the motorcycle distribution scheme. The daily payment requirement imposed on recipients has become a focal point of criticism, with Congress leaders arguing it shifted the burden to those meant to benefit from the initiative.

The incident reflects broader debates within Indian politics regarding the allocation of public resources and the purpose of government-sponsored celebratory events, particularly during periods when economic growth faces headwinds and citizens contend with inflation and employment challenges.