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CBI Conducts Raids at Mahua Moitra's Residences in connection with the Cash-for-Query Allegations
The Central Bureau of Investigation is conducting searches at various locations linked to former Lok Sabha MP and Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra, including her residences in Kolkata. The CBI’s raid on Saturday comes two days after the central agency filed an FIR against Moitra on Thursday in connection with the alleged cash-for-query scam, which led to her expulsion from the Lok Sabha last year.
The probe was initiated based on directives from the Lokpal, which instructed the CBI to investigate the allegations and submit a report within six months, and also asked the central agency to submit monthly update reports. The Lokpal stated that the decision to conduct searches and initiate a deeper probe was prompted by the seriousness of the allegations leveled against Mahua Moitra by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey. The order underscored the need for a thorough investigation, given the gravity of the charges and Moitra's position as a public servant.
CBI teams reached Mahua Moitra's residences in Kolkata and other cities on early Saturday morning. The operation was carried out after informing Moitra about the proceedings. The accusations against Mahua Moitra involve alleged acceptance of bribes from businessman Darshan Hiranandani in exchange for posing questions in Parliament, along with the sharing of her parliamentary login credentials with the businessman.
Despite the allegations leveled against her, Mahua Moitra has denied accepting bribes, asserting that she provided her login credentials to allow the businessman's staff to type out her parliamentary queries on the official portal. In December last year, Moitra was expelled from the Lok Sabha due to what was cited as "unethical conduct." Subsequently, she challenged her expulsion in the Supreme Court.
The Trinamool Congress leader has also been nominated by the party chief Mamata Banerjee to contest in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections as a candidate from Bengal’s Krishnanagar constituency.
