'Terrible Travesty': Union MoS Chandrasekhar On 'Cash For Query' Row Involving TMC MP Mahua Moitra

Rajeev Chandrasekhar expressed 'shock and shame' over "cash for query" allegations against TMC MP Mahua Moitra and called for a thorough inquiry into the potential misuse of Parliamentary Questions.

File Photo: Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar And TMC MP Mahua Moitra

Source : PTI Images

Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, expressed 'shock and shame' at the "cash for query" allegations levelled against Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, calling the situation "shocking and shameful." Chandrasekhar also called for a thorough investigation into the potential misuse of Parliamentary Questions (PQs).

Taking to social media, Chandrasekhar posted on X (Formerly Twitter), "I have learnt from news reports that this Parliamentary Question was likely asked by an MP at the behest of a Data centre company. If true, this is indeed shocking and shameful." He also pointed out the striking similarities between the language used in the PQ and the company's lobbying efforts, as it pertained to data localization and data breaches. Chandrasekhar made it clear that while he may not have all the facts, if the allegations are accurate, it signifies a "terrible travesty and misuse of PQs."

I hv learnt from news reports that this Parliamentary Question was likely asked by a MP at the behest of a Data center company.

If true this is indeed shocking and shameful 🤮🤬

It is true that this company was actively and aggressively lobbying for Data Localization.… pic.twitter.com/slrtrNLNSy

— Rajeev Chandrasekhar 🇮🇳 (@Rajeev_GoI) October 16, 2023

These developments followed Bharatiya Janata Party MP Nishikant Dubey's letter to Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Union Minister of State for IT, Rajeev Chandrashekhar, accusing Mahua Moitra of "cash for query" and urging the formation of an inquiry committee to investigate the matter.

Dubey cited allegations of bribery exchanges between Moitra and businessman Darshan Hiranandani, as leveled by a Supreme Court lawyer. In his letter, titled "Re-emergence of 'Cash for Query' in Parliament," Dubey raised concerns about a "serious breach of privilege," "contempt of the House," and a potential "criminal offence" under Section 120A of the IPC. This dispute has ignited a contentious battle between the BJP MP from Godda, Jharkhand, and the TMC MP from Krishnanagar, West Bengal.

The situation is still developing, with calls for a thorough investigation and possible parliamentary action against Moitra.