CJP's Abhijeet Dipke defends US education funding amid RTI row

Amid a fresh controversy over his educational background, Congress-Jana Suraj Party (CJP) spokesperson Abhijeet Dipke has clarified that his US education was financed through a scholarship from Boston University and a loan. The clarification comes after an RTI activist sought an inquiry into the finances of Dipke's father and a defence fund linked to the party.

RTI complaint triggers questions

The RTI activist had filed a complaint seeking details on how Dipke managed to fund his education in the United States. Questions were also raised about the source of funds for his father's financial dealings and a separate defence fund associated with the CJP.

Dipke, however, dismissed the queries as a deliberate attempt to distract from larger issues. In a sharp retort, he pointed to the PM CARES Fund, suggesting that the activist should scrutinise it as well before raising questions about his personal finances.

Dipke's response

Addressing the row, Dipke said he received a scholarship from Boston University and took a loan to cover the remaining expenses. He maintained that his education was funded through legitimate means and accused the RTI activist of targeting him for political reasons.

"Got scholarship from Boston University, took loan," Dipke said, while defending his family's financial record. He also questioned the timing of the complaint, calling it a motivated move ahead of upcoming elections.

Defence fund under scanner

The RTI activist's complaint also sought a probe into a defence fund meant for the CJP, raising questions about its collection and utilisation. Dipke, however, brushed aside the allegations, stating that the fund was created for legitimate party purposes and all procedures were followed.

He further alleged that the activist was acting at the behest of political rivals. "Look at PM CARES Fund too," he said, challenging the activist to apply the same scrutiny to the central government's relief fund.

Political undertones

The exchange has added to the ongoing political friction between the CJP and its opponents. While the RTI activist has demanded transparency, Dipke has framed the issue as a targeted attack on his party and its leadership.

Observers note that such disputes often surface in the run-up to elections, with both sides using institutional tools to score political points. The CJP has so far not issued an official statement on the matter beyond Dipke's personal clarification.

Officials have not yet confirmed whether any formal inquiry will be initiated based on the RTI complaint. The activist, for his part, has maintained that his intention is to ensure accountability in public life.

What to watch

The coming weeks may see further exchanges between the CJP and the RTI activist, especially if the latter presses for a formal probe. Whether the issue gains traction beyond social media and news cycles remains to be seen, but it has already opened a new front in the political battle ahead of the polls.