CBI is raiding many places linked to TMC leader Mahua Moitra. This investigation pertains to 'cash for enquiry'. The investigating agency is conducting raids at many places including Kolkata. On Thursday, CBI registered a regular case against him. A CBI team from Delhi has reached Mahua's father's flat in Alipore area of South Kolkata.
What did the Lokpal say in his order
The Lokpal, in its order, said that after a careful assessment of the entire information on record, there is no doubt that the allegations made against Mahua, most of which are substantiated, are of extremely serious nature considering her condition. For this reason, in our opinion, a thorough investigation is necessary to establish the truth. Keeping in view the position of the RPS (Responsible Public Servant) at the relevant time, it becomes necessary that the public servant maintains integrity in the discharge of his duties while holding office.
All efforts to root out corruption and corrupt practices
Lokpal has said in his order that the public representative has more responsibility and burden on his shoulders. It is our duty and the mandate of the Act to make all efforts to root out those corruptions and corrupt practices which cover aspects like undue advantage, illegal advantage or gain and profit and gain. Corruption is a disease which is adversely affecting the legislative, administrative, social and economic functioning of this democratic country.
What is cash issue for query?
Mahua Moitra was accused of taking money and asking questions in Parliament. After investigation, the Ethics Committee submitted its report to the Speaker. The whole matter started with the allegations of BJP MP Nishikant Dubey. Nishikant Dubey had accused Mahua Moitra of taking bribe from real estate businessman Hiranandani to ask questions in Parliament. Nishikant Dubey has made these allegations on the basis of the complaint of Mahua's former friend Jai Anant Dehadrai.
Lok Sabha Speaker formed a committee
On Nishikant's complaint, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla formed a committee. In a letter to Birla, Nishikant Dubey described the matter as a serious 'breach of privilege' and an 'insult to the house'. The committee recorded the statements of many people including Mahua Moitra, Nishikant Dubey. A committee headed by Vinod Kumar Sonkar, in its meeting on November 9, prepared a report recommending cancellation of Mahua Moitra's Lok Sabha membership on charges of 'cash-for-queries'. Six members of the committee voted in favor of the report and their Parliament memberships were revoked in December 2023.