Following Lokpal’s formal investigation order to the CBI related to the bribe-for-questions case, the agency has commenced conducting searches at places linked to Mahua Moitra, the TMC leader. These searches are being conducted in Kolkata as well.
This follows the accusations made by opposition parties against the BJP government for using central agencies to target leaders ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. The allegations came following the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi, in the liquor policy case.
Moitra is accused of sharing her credentials with Darshan Hiranandani, a businessman, who posted questions related to industrialist Gautam Adani. Allegations claim that Moitra did this for bribes, both in terms of cash and gifts, while the TMC leader has denied the allegations against her.
The CBI conducted an enquiry following Lokpal’s order on November 8, 2023, and the agency has submitted the investigation report to the anti-corruption bureau. The TMC leader was given a chance to defend herself, which she did through her lawyers and denied the allegations.
The Lokpal order stated, “After careful evaluation and consideration of the entire material on record, there remains no doubt regarding the fact that the allegations levelled against the RPS (respondent public servant), most of which are supported by cogent evidence, are extremely serious in nature, especially in view of the position held by her.”
“Therefore, in our considered opinion, a deeper probe is required to establish the truth. This is vital in view of the position and status held by the RPS at the relevant point of time.”