The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has initiated searches at the residences and other premises belonging to Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra in Kolkata. These actions are part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged cash-for-query case involving the former Member of Parliament.
The development follows a directive from the Lokpal, issued on Tuesday, instructing the CBI to investigate all aspects of the allegations against Mahua Moitra in the cash-for-query case. The Lokpal’s order mandated a thorough probe under Section 20(3)(a) and required the CBI to submit a comprehensive report within six months. Additionally, the CBI has been instructed to provide periodic updates on the status of the investigation on a monthly basis.
The decision to conduct searches comes after careful consideration of the evidence presented against Mahua Moitra. The Lokpal emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, particularly given Moitra’s position, and deemed it necessary to delve deeper into the matter to ascertain the truth.
Previously, the CBI had conducted a preliminary inquiry into the allegations against Moitra following a referral from the Lokpal. Moitra’s expulsion from the Lok Sabha in December last year stemmed from the findings of the House’s ethics committee, which concluded that she was culpable in the cash-for-query case.
Despite the allegations, Mahua Moitra has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that she is being targeted for her scrutiny of the Adani Group’s business dealings. The accusations against her originated from a complaint filed by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, alleging that she accepted “cash and gifts” from a Dubai-based businessman, Darshan Hiranandani, in exchange for posing questions in Parliament.
In a recent legal development, the Delhi High Court dismissed Mahua Moitra’s plea seeking to restrain Nishikant Dubey and another individual from making further allegations in the cash-for-query case.
The ongoing investigation underscores the gravity of the allegations against Mahua Moitra and the commitment of law enforcement agencies to uphold transparency and accountability in parliamentary proceedings.
