CBI launches probe in cash-for-query case against TMC MP Mahua Moitra

The CBI has launched a preliminary probe into the cash-for-query controversy surrounding Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra. Acting on the directions of the Lokpal, the agency's preliminary inquiry aims to determine whether criminal charges should be filed against Moitra based on the investigation's outcome.

Under a preliminary enquiry, the CBI cannot arrest an accused or conduct searches, but it can seek information, examine documents and also interrogate the Trinamool MP. Since this enquiry was initiated based on the orders of the Lokpal, the report will be submitted to the anti-corruption body.

The complaint leading to the CBI inquiry was filed by Supreme Court lawyer Jai Anant Dehardrai, alleging that Moitra accepted bribes from businessman Darshan Hiranandani in exchange for raising questions in Parliament. 

Mr Dehadrai had also written to BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and, based on Mr Dubey's complaint, Speaker Om Birla had referred the matter to the Ethics Committee. Mr Dubey had also filed a complaint with the Lokpal.

In an affidavit sent to the panel, Mr Hiranandani had alleged that the Trinamool MP had shared her email ID as a Member of Parliament so that he could send her information and she could raise the questions in the Parliament. He further adds "Ms Moitra thought that the only way to attack PM Modi is by attacking Gautam Adani as both were contemporaries and belong to the same state of Gujarat." 

The CBI move comes two days after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee broke her silence on the controversy and said that Ms Moitra's chances would be boosted if she was expelled from the Lok Sabha based on the report by the Ethics Committee.