Sam Pitroda Defends Remarks On Inheritance Tax, Says 'I Never Said It Should Be Introduced In India'

Sam Pitroda, the Chairman of the Overseas Congress, who stoked controversy over remarks on inheritance tax law in India and south Indians during the Lok Sabha elections, has said he never said that inheritance tax should be introduced in India and his comments were misinterpreted.

“Look, I stand by what I said. I know India—there are trolls, there are liars, and there are people paid to attack, and I take that as part of the package. I never said inheritance tax should be introduced in India. I simply mentioned that this is what happens in America, which is fine…,” he told IANS.

Just few days ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Sam Pitroda announced his decision to step down as the Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress over the controversy that erupted following his racist remark. The controversy intensified after Pitroda unleashed a racist rant on India’s ethnicity.

When asked to comment on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s communal civil code, Pitroda said, “I don’t know, as I am not a legal expert to answer this. However, I do believe in equality, diversity, and inclusion. These are the broader concepts I stand by. Lawyers will have to sort this out, as I am not qualified to do so.”

On “One Nation, One Election”, the Indian Overseas Congress Chief said it is not practical to have one election in India. “The idea of uniformity doesn’t align with India’s core values, as India thrives on diversity. There will always be multiple elections, languages, and cultures. Forcing uniformity on India won’t work…,” he added.

Pitroda said that his team is working on Rahul Gandhi’s visit to the US. “Once the visit is finalized, the dates are confirmed, and the program is set, we will issue a press release and hold a press conference.”

On India granting asylum to Sheikh Hasina, Pitroda replied, “That is for India to decide, and it’s up to Indian foreign policy experts to make that determination. We have a good relationship with Bangladesh, so I think something should be worked out that satisfies everyone—Bangladesh’s government, the Indian government, and Sheikh Hasina. We don’t want any further disturbances. It’s important for Bangladesh to return to a normal situation where peace prevails, people can focus on their work, and the economy functions as it has been. If Sheikh Hasina needs to stay in India for a while, then that’s okay.”

(With inputs from IANS)