Venkaiah Naidu criticises opposition for backing corrupt

Venkaiah Naidu said that the opposition parties are blocking the government's action and it appears they are fighting for the corrupt, black money holders and terrorists.

New Delhi, Dec 16: Urban Development Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu on Friday said the opposition appeared to be "fighting for the corrupt and terrorists". "Earlier, when the opposition used to raise its voice against corruption, the ruling party used to suppress the voice," Naidu told the media.

"But today some of the opposition parties are blocking the government's action and it appears they are fighting for the corrupt, black money holders and terrorists," he said. Defining demonetisation as a historic and bold step, Naidu said: "This decision of the Prime Minister is aimed at attacking those forces.

"One can find faults in the implementation, they can give suggestions, but how can you find faults in the decision of the government? "It is a historic, radical and bold decision taken by the Prime Minister. It is a fight against black money and corruption.

"The irony is to see the government fighting corruption and black money, and the opposition rallying behind the corrupt forces," he said. "It is all because he has attacked the roots of corruption and black money," Naidu said.

The government on November 8 scrapped Rs 500 and 1,000 notes, saying the decision was meant to fight black money, corruption and terror funding. "The roots and the foundation stone of black money and corruption have been shaken. That's why they are ... trying to create panic among the people."

Naidu's remarks came after the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned again on the last day of the winter session. Naidu also targeted the opposition for supporting the Congress over demonetisation.

"It is tragic that the opposition parties which fought against the Congress earlier ... are ready to accept the leadership of the Congress," Naidu said. "It is laughable and most unfortunate for democracy."

IANS