LTC scam: JD(U) MP denies charges, refuses to step down

PATNA: JD(U) Rajya Sabha MP Anil Sahni’s alleged involvement in the LTC scam has come as a first source of headache for CM Nitish Kumar after his elevation to the post of his party’ national president.

While party insiders say Sahni should resign as inquiry moves on, Shani has showed his reluctance to do so. “I am whistle blower of the case. I will not resign from the membership of the House. I am falsely implicated in this matter,” Sahni told ETon phone on Friday.

Rajya Sabha chairman Hamid Ansari has recently given sanction to prosecute Sahni in the same case. Sahni claimed he is a victim of political conspiracy. “I had brought the LTC scam to the notice of Rajya Sabha secretariat in early 2013. I had informed the Rajya Sabha Secretariat,” he added.

He further said he has an account with SBI and it can be examined from my same account if such an amount was ever deposited. Although he referred to a political conspiracy against him, he did not name anyone.

To a question, he said he has not got any message to meet the newly- appointed JD(U) national president and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar and explain his position. “If he calls me, I will explain my case before him,” he replied to a question.

Sahni also said Rajya Sabha secretariat should have contacted him before giving sanction to prosecute him. On the contrary, JD(U) is in no mood to lock horn with Sahni at present.

Party spokesperson KC Tyagi said Shahni would be given opportunity to explain his position before party president Nitish Kumar and former president Sharad Yadav. He confirmed that the party has so far not asked him to resign. He also added party maintains zero tolerance against corruption.

Sahni’ stand to avoid his resignation may create problem for him.