‘Cash-for-Query’ Scandal: Delhi to Consider Expelled TMC MP Mohua Moitra’s Appeal on January 4 Regarding Eviction Order from Bungalow

The Delhi High Court has scheduled a hearing for January 4 to address a petition filed by expelled Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra, seeking the annulment of a notice issued by the Directorate of Estate that revoked her government-provided residence in Delhi. According to the plea, Moitra received a notice on December 11 instructing her to vacate the government bungalow by January 7, 2024, or face potential actions under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act of 1971 (‘PP Act 1971’).

The Directorate of Estate, operating under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, issued the eviction notice shortly after Moitra’s expulsion from the Lok Sabha in connection with the ‘cash-for-query’ case. The petition argues that the cancellation of her allocated accommodation is contingent upon the validity of her expulsion from the Lok Sabha, which is currently under review by the Supreme Court of India. This ongoing legal process involves substantial constitutional interpretation issues.

The plea seeks the court’s intervention to allow Moitra to retain possession of her government residence until the results of next year’s general elections are declared. It emphasizes that the lack of government accommodation presents a significant obstacle to Moitra’s capacity to host and interact with party members, parliamentarians, colleagues, constituents, key stakeholders, and other dignitaries, particularly as the general election approaches.