It has come to our attention that multiple baseless and fabricated allegations have been made against Mr. Sam Pitroda in recent months. These claims, propagated by the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) and its IT cell, are nothing but desperate attempts to malign his image and discredit his decades-long contributions to India’s technology, development and progress.
We categorically reject these false accusations and expose them for what they truly are—a political smear campaign systematically designed and executed to attack well respected public personality mainly to divert attention of the people from real issues affecting the economy and the country.
1. Land Scam Allegations in Karnataka
The claim that Mr. Sam Pitroda is involved in any illegal land occupation in Karnataka is completely false. He has never been associated with the land in question, nor has he played any role in the dealings of the non-profit Foundation for Revitalisation of Local Health Traditions (FRLHT) on the land issue.
The BJP, known for its manipulative tactics, has fabricated this narrative to tarnish his credibility. It is alarming how they are using state institutions to push political vendettas against those who have worked for India’s development.
2. Comments on China – BJP’s Deliberate Misinterpretation
Mr. Pitroda has always advocated for a strategic and diplomatic approach to international relations. His remarks on China have been deliberately misinterpreted by the BJP to create controversy where none exists.
The Congress party has always prioritized national security, and Mr. Pitroda’s statements were in the context of the US and fostering a balanced and pragmatic foreign policy—something the ruling government has failed to achieve or paid attention to.
3. Allegations on Illegal Migrants – Fake Video Circulation
The so-called "video" showing Mr. Pitroda advocating for illegal migrants is a doctored clip, circulated by BJP’s notorious IT cell.
In recent years, we have seen how the ruling party has used deepfake technology and manipulated videos to spread misinformation. This is yet another attempt to stir communal sentiments and defame a respected individual who has tirelessly worked for India's technological and economic growth.
The migration comment was also related to the US deporting illegal people entering mainly on the south boarder. It had nothing to do with Bangladeshi or five-star facilities.
4. Inheritance Tax Controversy – Twisting Facts
Mr. Pitroda’s remarks on inheritance tax were purely academic, based on global discussions about wealth redistribution and the situation in the US. BJP has intentionally taken his words out of context to fuel unnecessary outrage. He does not formulate Congress’ financial policies, and it is disgraceful and sad that the ruling party resorts to misrepresenting discussions to score political points.
It is known that any such policy would need broader discussion in the public and parliament before a law could be drafted and passed. It is long process in democracy and cannot be attributed to a lone voice.
5. BJP’s IT Cell: A Hub of Misinformation and Cyber Attacks
It is important to highlight that BJP’s IT cell has been actively concocting, twisting, hacking and manipulating Mr. Pitroda’s communications. His personal and professional devices have been targeted, and selective information has been distorted to fit their narrative.
This is not the first time BJP has weaponized digital propaganda against its opponents. India has witnessed similar smear campaigns against various leaders who challenge their authoritarian rule.
6. Cyber Attack During IIT Roorkee Presentation
On February 1, 2025, while delivering a virtual lecture at IIT Roorkee's Cognizant event, Mr. Pitroda's presentation was maliciously interrupted by hackers who streamed explicit content.
This reprehensible act underscores the pressing need for enhanced cybersecurity measures in academic settings. Mr. Pitroda expressed his concern, stating, "It is deeply disturbing that such incidents occur, especially in academic spaces meant for learning and growth." We have seen the emails related to this zoom conference at Roorkee IIT which was hacked.
It is unfortunate that even the ministry of education will respond to such allegation and join the attacks on Mr. Pitroda without verifying the facts.
7. Media's Unwarranted Focus Amidst Political Motivations
It is perplexing that certain media outlets amplify these unfounded allegations, even though:
• Mr. Pitroda holds no elective position in mainstream Indian politics.
• The undue media attention appears orchestrated to undermine his credibility and distract from pressing national issues.
• Not a single media outlet contacted Mr. Pitroda for his side of the story or to verify the facts.
Is that fair? Is this real democracy?
Mr. Pitroda's Enduring Contributions to India's Progress
Mr. Sam Pitroda's legacy is etched in India's transformation:
• Telecommunications Revolution: Instrumental in democratizing access to communication, Mr. Pitroda's initiatives have connected millions across the nation. He planted seeds for self-reliance in Communication, IT and software in mid 1980s with political will from Rajiv Gandhi.
• Technology Missions: He headed national technology missions on – Drinking water, Immunization, Literacy, Oil seeds, Dairy Development and Telecom. In 1982 we had 2 million phones. Today we are a nation of connected billions with over 1.5 billion phones. In addition, we generate $200 billion a year in Software services. In 1980s we did not produce any vaccine. Today we are the largest producers of Vaccine. We irradicated Pollio and became largest producer of milk. Mr. Pitroda was Chairman of C=DAC that produced India’s supercomputer. How do you think all that happened?
• National Knowledge Commission (NKC) : As Chairman, he championed reforms to bolster India's knowledge infrastructure, emphasizing education and innovation The .NKC submitted over 300 reforms on 21 subjects and advocated almost 20 years ago for over 1000 universities in India. He also initiated and built multibillion dollar National Knowledge network to connect all our universities and R&D labs. At the same time he championed programs to connect all Panchayats to broadband.
• Combating Hunger: Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to social causes, Mr. Pitroda played a pivotal role in establishing the Deli FoodBankI (DFB) in 2012, part of the ndia Food Banking (IFBN) to address hunger and food security in India.
Political Vendetta Against Opposition Leaders
The current political climate is marred by attempts to stifle dissent:
Targeting of Opposition Figures: Notably, 24 unfounded cases have been filed against Shri Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition. Evidently, none have resulted in convictions, highlighting the politically motivated mala fide nature of these allegations.
Calls for Responsible Conduct
Mr. Mohinder Singh Gilzian, President of the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) USA, has urged political entities, including the BJP's IT cell, to focus on the nation's welfare rather than engaging in smear campaigns against the Indian National Congress. He emphasized the importance of constructive political discourse aimed at India's progress.
Demand for Accountability
We demand that:
• The central government and investigative agencies conduct a fair and transparent inquiry, rather than acting as tools of political harassment.
• BJP’s IT cell be held accountable and responsible for spreading doctored videos and hacking private communications.
• The media refrain from amplifying unverified and politically motivated accusations.
Mr. Sam Pitroda remains committed to truth, justice, and the development and progress of India. No amount of false propaganda or cyberattacks will deter his unwavering dedication to the nation. We urge the public to see through these dirty tactics and focus on real issues—unemployment, inflation, and economic distress—which the BJP seeks to divert attention from.
Conclusion
The orchestrated attempts to defame Mr. Sam Pitroda are transparent efforts to divert public attention from critical national issues. We urge the media and the public to recognize these tactics and focus on constructive discourse that advances India's development and democratic values.
Harbachan Singh Esq.,
Secretary General
