Alagiri condemns BJP for freezing National Herald, ACL assets

In a strong condemnation of the Modi-led BJP regime, K S Alagiri, the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) chief, expressed outrage over the freezing of assets belonging to the National Herald and Associate Journal Limited (ACL). Alagiri accused the government of pursuing a political agenda and vowed that the Congress party would not succumb to what he termed as vengeful actions. Alagiri emphasized the historical significance of the National Herald, noting its role in successfully fighting against British oppression. He asserted that, just as the publication resisted colonial rule, it would also overcome what he described as the vengeful approach of the current rulers. The TNCC chief accused the BJP of freezing ACL’s assets as a diversionary tactic, aimed at deflecting attention from the anticipated electoral setbacks in the upcoming five-state Assembly polls. He questioned the timing of the action, suggesting a political motive behind the move. In a statement addressing the situation, Alagiri pointed out that the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) could only be invoked if there is a predicate offense. However, in the case of National Herald and ACL, he argued that no immovable property was sold, no transactions occurred, and no crime had taken place. Alagiri went on to state, “Truth be told. No person has lodged a complaint of being cheated. It is a foisted case revived during elections to divert attention and exact political revenge.” This assertion raises concerns about the legitimacy of the allegations and suggests that the government’s actions may be driven by political considerations rather than a genuine legal basis. @@@