The Lokpal noted that allegations Against TMC Leader-Mahua Moitra were serious and also supported by cogent evidence.
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NEW DELHI: The Lokpal of India, in a significant move, issued a directive Yesterday (March 19th) instructing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to initiate an investigation against Mahua Moitra, a prominent leader from the Trinamool Congress, in connection with the cash-for-query case under the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA).
A panel consisting of judicial member Justice Abhilasha Kumari and members Archana Ramasundaram and Mahender Singh carefully deliberated on the matter and observed that the allegations against Moitra were grave and substantiated by compelling evidence.
“In light of a thorough examination and consideration of the entirety of the evidence presented, there is a clear indication that the accusations leveled against RPS [Referring to Moitra], many of which are supported by substantial evidence, carry significant weight, particularly given her position. Consequently, we firmly believe that a comprehensive investigation is imperative to uncover the truth… It is incumbent upon us, and indeed mandated by the Act, to take all necessary measures to eradicate corruption and unethical practices that encompass elements such as undue advantage, illicit gains, and quid pro quo in the execution of public responsibilities,” the order articulated.
The order stressed the heightened responsibility and accountability that falls upon public representatives, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
This decision comes in response to a complaint lodged by a Member of Parliament, who alleged receiving a letter from lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai on October 14, 2023, containing troubling accusations against Moitra.
The directive from the Lokpal underscores the commitment to uphold integrity and transparency within the political sphere, affirming the importance of holding individuals in positions of power accountable for their actions. It serves as a reminder of the crucial role institutions play in safeguarding democratic values and ensuring public trust in governance.
In a damning letter submitted to authorities, lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai made startling allegations against Mahua Moitra, asserting that she had granted full access to her online Lok Sabha account to businessman Darshan Hiranandani. Dehadrai alleged that Hiranandani had misused this access to post parliamentary questions of his choosing, a staggering 50 out of the 61 questions Moitra had posed during her tenure as an MP.
The purported criminal scheme, according to Dehadrai, was orchestrated with several objectives in mind:
- To advance Hiranandani’s business ventures
- To target Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and other government officials;
- To vilify Gautam Adani, who had apparently outcompeted Hiranandani for energy and infrastructure contracts.
The Lokpal, upon reviewing the CBI report presented to them, found the initial allegation that Mahua shared her login credentials and password with Hiranandani to be prima facie valid.
“During the Inquiry, it was revealed that Shri Darshan Hiranandani had sworn an affidavit stating that the RPS had shared her Member Portal Password with him in order to enable him to post questions. He also confirmed upon inquiry that all the 58 (fifty-eight) online questions, which the RPS had asked, were typed by him,”
-the order stated.
Furthermore, it was noted that Hiranandani admitted to logging in from locations in Dubai, Bangalore, and the United States using his VPN, with details of the questions provided in the Preliminary Inquiry Report.
The Lokpal emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into whether the login credentials were exchanged for favors or gifts, given the limitations of the initial inquiry.
According to the CBI report, the allegations concerning Moitra’s purported demands for logistical/travel expenses/gifts in India and abroad, as well as the assistance provided by Hiranandani in renovating her official residence, were substantiated.
Consequently, the Lokpal directed the CBI to delve into all aspects of the allegations outlined in the complaint and submit a comprehensive investigation report within six months from the date of receipt of the order.
“The CBI shall also file periodical reports regarding the status of the investigation, every month,”
-it added.
The directive underscores the seriousness with which allegations of corruption and misconduct are being addressed, reaffirming the commitment to transparency and accountability in public office. It also highlights the crucial role of regulatory bodies in upholding democratic principles and preserving public trust in governance.
Click Here to Read Previous Reports on Mahua Moitra
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