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The Congress party has strongly criticized the new Income Tax law, alleging that it grants tax authorities sweeping powers to access taxpayers' personal data, including emails, social media, and bank accounts. The opposition party claims that this move will turn India into a "surveillance state," stripping citizens of their right to privacy.
Congress Accuses Government of Digital Intrusion
In a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Congress party accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government of expanding its surveillance capabilities.
"They spied on us with Pegasus. Now, they will completely take over our private lives. Under Modi’s new Income Tax law, the government is quietly giving tax officials the power to break into your digital life. No warrant, no notice—mere suspicion is enough to take away your privacy. This is surveillance. And we must all oppose it categorically," the Congress wrote.
Unrestricted Access to Private Data?
Supriya Shrinate, Congress’ social media head, issued a warning about the implications of the new law, stating that it enables tax authorities to access:
- Emails – Giving them the ability to read private conversations.
- Social Media Accounts – Allowing them to monitor posts, messages, and interactions.
- Bank Accounts – Keeping track of income, expenditures, and transactions.
- Trading Accounts – Overseeing investments and financial activities.
Shrinate further alleged that tax officials will not need concrete proof to carry out such surveillance—mere suspicion will be enough to justify an investigation.
Fears of Government Overreach
Congress claims that the Modi government has misused investigative agencies in the past to target critics and opposition leaders. Now, they fear that tax authorities could be weaponized to:
- Harass and intimidate citizens
- Settle political scores against opponents
- Destroy reputations using financial scrutiny
"A government with unchecked power is dangerous. Will you stay silent or look the other way?" the Congress leader asked.
The Income Tax Bill and Government’s Justification
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the Income Tax Bill in Parliament on February 13. The bill aims to simplify tax laws, modernize definitions, and provide greater clarity on taxation matters. To evaluate the proposed changes, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla formed a 31-member select committee, chaired by BJP leader Baijayant Panda.
While the government argues that the bill seeks to enhance transparency and efficiency, the opposition sees it as a step towards increased state control over personal freedoms.
