Cash-for-query row: TMC leader Mahua Moitra moves to Supreme Court, challenge Lok Sabha expulsion

Cash-for-query row: Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra has taken a significant step by approaching the Supreme Court to challenge her recent expulsion from the Lok Sabha, following a 'cash for query' corruption case.

Accused of accepting bribes, including a substantial sum of Rs 2 crore in cash and luxury items, from businessman Darshan Hiranandani in exchange for posing critical questions about the Modi government in Parliament, Ms. Moitra's case sparked a heated controversy.

Ms. Moitra vehemently denied the bribery allegations but admitted to sharing login credentials, claiming it to be a common practice among MPs. However, an Parliament Ethics Committee report labeled the allegations of accepting illegal gratification as "clearly established and undeniable," citing the act of sharing login details and receiving gifts as a "quid pro quo" and "unethical conduct" unbecoming of an MP.

The tabling of this extensive report in the Lok Sabha triggered a fierce clash between the opposition and the ruling BJP. Ultimately, after a tumultuous debate and voice vote, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla declared Ms. Moitra's conduct as "immoral and indecent," leading to her expulsion. Denied the opportunity to address the Lok Sabha, Ms. Moitra condemned the ethics panel's actions, predicting impending CBI raids. Meanwhile, the CBI has initiated an inquiry into the allegations against her.

Ms. Moitra, supported by Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, labeled the expulsion as unacceptable and accused the BJP of orchestrating it as part of vendetta politics. Mamata Banerjee further criticised the BJP, indicating that this move might serve to bolster Ms. Moitra's standing before the elections. The expulsion of Mahua Moitra, known for her vocal criticism of the ruling party, has sparked a storm of controversy, highlighting the clash between political factions within the Lok Sabha.

- With inputs from agencies

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