Cash-for-Query Inquiry: Mahua declines Parliamentary panel invitation, citing public summons on Live TV

Mahua Moitra faces Cash-for-Query inquiry: Mahua Moitra, a Lok Sabha MP from the Trinamool Congress, has responded to the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee's summons in relation to allegations of involvement in a "cash-for-questions" scandal. She has expressed her unavailability to appear before the committee on the initially designated date of October 31.

Instead, she has offered to attend at a time of the committee's choosing after November 5. In her response, Mahua Moitra pointed out her commitments during the Durga Puja festivities in West Bengal, the state she represents. She noted that she is scheduled to participate in various Vijaya Dashami Sammelans and meetings in her constituency from October 30 to November 4, which makes her unavailable in Delhi on October 31.

Chairman, Ethics Comm announced my 31/10 summons on live TV way before official letter emailed to me at 19:20 hrs. All complaints & suo moto affidavits also released to media. I look forward to deposing immediately after my pre- scheduled constituency programmes end on Nov 4. pic.twitter.com/ARgWeSQiHJ — Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) October 27, 2023

Furthermore, Moitra emphasised her eagerness for a fair hearing to address the allegations made by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and advocate Jai Annant Dehadrai. She expressed concern that the committee chose to hear the complainants first, which, in her view, contradicted the principles of natural justice. Moitra referenced the case of Lok Sabha MP Ramesh Bidhuri, who was granted additional time due to his pre-existing election-related commitments.

In her reply, Mahua Moitra also requested the opportunity to cross-examine industrialist Hiranandani, as he plays a central role in the allegations. She insisted that it is vital for Hiranandani to appear before the committee to provide a verified list of the alleged gifts and favors he is said to have offered to her.

Moitra contended that an inquiry without Hiranandani's oral testimony would be incomplete and unjust, akin to a "kangaroo court." She emphasised the importance of defending herself against what she considers a deliberate and malicious campaign against her.

Mahua Moitra concluded her response by highlighting her record of personal integrity and honesty, both as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) and as a Member of Parliament (MP). She stressed the significance of allowing her to clear her name, particularly because of her active role in the opposition, where she has raised concerns about corporate scandals and issues of national importance. Moitra emphasised that her ability to defend herself is crucial for the health of Indian democracy in the face of what she views as a baseless smear campaign.

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- With inputs from agencies

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