New Delhi: Senior Congress leader and Supreme Court advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi has accused the Modi government of dismantling India’s institutional safeguards, declaring that “cheques and bulldozers have replaced checks and balances.”
Speaking during the Congress meeting, Singhvi said democratic accountability has been eroded to the point where financial inducements and state coercion have taken the place of constitutional oversight.
The comment was aimed at both political corruption (“cheques”) and the use of state machinery for intimidation and punitive action (“bulldozers”).
The Context
Singhvi’s remarks came amid a larger Congress discussion on:
- Electoral integrity
- Judicial independence
- The weakening of parliamentary oversight mechanisms
Congress leaders argue that bulldozer politics — a reference to the demolition of properties of political opponents in BJP‑ruled states has become a symbol of state overreach. Singhvi added that cash‑fuelled politics is being used to buy loyalty and sway political outcomes.
Past Incidents Adding to Singhvi’s Credibility
In December 2024, a bundle of ₹50,000 in ₹500 notes was found under Singhvi’s seat in the Rajya Sabha during a post‑session sweep ordered by Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar.
Singhvi denied any involvement, calling the discovery “bizarre and comical” and demanding a high‑level probe.
A formal investigation was ordered, with security footage under review.
The incident, though unresolved, fed into Singhvi’s long‑standing concerns about political manipulation through money power.
Reactions
- Congress colleagues have amplified the remark on social media as a sharp political soundbite.
- BJP leaders have dismissed it as rhetorical grandstanding meant to distract from Congress’s own electoral setbacks.
- Political analysts say Singhvi’s framing captures a dual criticism of corruption and authoritarianism, giving the party a punchy campaign message.
