'It's shameful for Parliamentary Democracy': Mamata Banerjee on Moitra's expulsion

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday following the expulsion of Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mahua Moitra from the Lok Sabha. The move came after a debate on allegations of cash-for-question, leaving Banerjee dismayed at what she called a betrayal of democracy.

Expressing her disappointment at the BJP's actions, Banerjee stated, "Today, I am sad to see the attitude of the BJP party... How they betray democracy. It is a shame for parliamentary democracy. They did not allow Mahua to explain her stand. Full injustice has been done." She emphasized that the TMC firmly stands with Moitra.

Accusing the BJP of resorting to vendetta politics, Banerjee asserted, "They (the BJP) can't defeat us in the election, so they have resorted to vendetta politics. It is a sad day." Despite the setback, Banerjee predicted Moitra's return to Parliament with a stronger mandate, cautioning the BJP that they should consider the possibility of not being in power one day.

The expulsion motion was moved by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi after a heated debate over the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee panel report. Moitra was not given an opportunity to speak, and the motion for her expulsion for "unethical conduct" was adopted by a voice vote.