CBI launches preliminary enquiry against TMC MP Mahua Moitra in connection to alleged 'cash-for-query' scam

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Saturday initiated a preliminary enquiry against Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra in connection to the alleged ‘cash-for-query’ scam. The central investigative agency took this action following directives from the Lokpal.

Following her admission of sharing login details, the CBI will probe into whether Mahua got any monetary or other benefits from the Hiranandani group. During a preliminary enquiry, the CBI is not authorized to make arrests or carry out searches. However, it has the authority to gather information, scrutinize documents, and interview the Trinamool MP. As this inquiry was launched at the behest of Lokpal, the findings will be presented to the anti-corruption body.

The CBI's inquiry into Moitra stems from a complaint filed by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey had flagged the alleged ‘cash-for query’ scam against Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra. Dubey had written to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla accusing Moitra of accepting bribes from Dubai-based businessman Darshan Hiranandani for raising questions against the Adani group inside the House of Parliament. He further alleged that Moitra shared her parliamentary logging credentials with Hiranandani, for posing the questions on her behalf. The Lok Sabha Ethics Committee had probed into these allegations and suggested the expulsion of Mahua Moitra from the Parliament.

The CBI enquiry comes two days after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee broke her silence on the alleged ‘scam’ leveled against Mahua Moitra. "They have planned to chase out Mahua. She will become popular for three months. What she said inside... she will say outside. She will hold press conferences every day. What does she lose?” said Banerjee during a political gathering on Thursday.​