Cash-For-Query Scam: CBI Submits Report Against TMC MP Mahua Moitra To Lokpal
The CBI has submitted its report to the Lokpal regarding cash-for-query allegations against MP Mahua Moitra, involving businessman Darshan Hiranandani. The investigation stemmed from a complaint by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has handed over its report to the Lokpal regarding the high-profile cash-for-query allegations involving Lok Sabha MP Mahua Moitra and businessman Darshan Hiranandani.
The investigation, launched after an FIR was filed on March 21 last year, stemmed from accusations that Moitra, who at the time was serving as the MP for Krishnanagar, had engaged in corrupt activities. The agency had registered an FIR against Moitra and Hiranandani under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act on a reference from the Lokpal.
She allegedly accepted bribes and other favors from Hiranandani, "compromising her parliamentary privileges and causing national security threats by sharing her Lok Sabha login credentials."
After months of probing, the CBI has now submitted its findings to the Lokpal, India's anti-corruption watchdog, which will decide on the next steps in this closely-watched case.
Moitra’s political journey has been tumultuous. In December 2023, she was expelled from the Lok Sabha for what was described as “unethical conduct”. She is currently contesting this decision in the Supreme Court. The TMC leader then staged a comeback in the 2024 general elections, securing victory over BJP’s Amrita Roy and reclaiming her seat in the 18th Lok Sabha.
The origins of the investigation trace back to a formal complaint by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey. He alleged that Moitra accepted cash and lavish gifts from Dubai-based Darshan Hiranandani in exchange for asking targeted questions in Parliament, which were aimed at undermining Prime Minister Narendra Modi, industrialist Gautam Adani, and others.
Subsequently, the Lokpal issued directions to the CBI after receiving the findings of its preliminary inquiry into BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's allegations against Moitra.
Recently, Mahua Moitra also moved the Supreme Court challenging an order of the Election Commission for special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar.
In her petition, she has sought that the ECI order dated June 24 under which Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is being conducted in Bihar, be set aside, alleging violation of various provisions of the Constitution.
(With inputs from news agency PTI.)
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