Cash for query scam: CBI conducts searches at TMC leader Mahua Moitra's residences and other places in Kolkata

Central Bureau of Investigation on Saturday conducted searches at the residence of Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mahua Moitra as part of its investigation into the cash-for-query scam. CBI is also conducting raids at other locations in Kolkata.

The CBI on Thursday registered an FIR against former Trinamool Congress MP in the cash-for-query case, officials said. The Lokpal has issued the directions to the CBI after receiving findings of the agency's preliminary inquiry into allegations made by BJP Lok Sabha member Nishikant Dubey against Moitra. The Lokpal had directed the Central Bureau of Investigation to submit its findings in six months before it after investigating all aspects of the complaints against her in the matter.

Lok Sabha had expelled Moitra in December last year for "unethical conduct".


The Lokpal found that "allegations levelled against the RPS (Respondent Public Servant), most of which are supported by cogent evidence, are extremely serious in nature, especially in view of the position held by her."

"Therefore, in our considered opinion, a deeper probe is required to establish the truth. This is vital in view of the position and status held by the RPS at the relevant point of time," said the order of the Lokpal bench, comprising Justice Abhilasha Kumari (judicial member) and members Archana Ramasundaram and Mahender Singh.

Last year, Moitra faced expulsion from the Lok Sabha following the adoption of the ethics committee's report that held her guilty of allegations against her in the Cash for Query case.

The complaint against her, lodged by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey with the Lok Sabha Speaker, accused her of receiving "cash and gifts" from Dubai-based businessman Darshan Hiranandani in exchange for posing questions in Parliament.

Earlier this month, the Delhi High Court dismissed Mahua Moitra's petition seeking to prevent Nishikant Dubey and Jai Dehadrai from making allegations in the cash-for-query case.


(With agency inputs)