BJP's Allegation: Sibal and the Epstein Connection

The BJP accused former Union minister Kapil Sibal of accepting an award in 2010 funded by sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, demanding a response from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Sibal dismissed these claims as rubbish. The controversy hints at potential influences on Congress policies during that period.

On Saturday, the BJP leveled accusations against former Union minister Kapil Sibal, alleging that he received an award in 2010 funded by convicted American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The BJP demanded a response from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding the issue. Sibal dismissed these claims as unfounded.

BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari, in a post on X, asserted that Sibal's receipt of the award, alongside other dignitaries, including Sam Pitroda, hints at potential influences on Congress policies during that period. Bhandari suggested that Epstein's external influence might have attempted to shape decisions in the Congress-led government.

The political friction intensified as the Congress called for Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri's resignation following his name's appearance in the 'Epstein files'. Meanwhile, Gandhi criticized the India-US interim trade deal, alleging it compromised India's energy security and farmers' interests to protect the BJP's financial structure.

(With inputs from agencies.)