The CBI has conducted searches at the premises of Mahua Moitra, former TMC MP, in multiple locations including Kolkata, in connection with the alleged cash-for-query case. The agency registered an FIR against Moitra on the directions of the Lokpal after receiving findings of a preliminary inquiry into allegations made by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey. Moitra, who was expelled from the Lok Sabha for "unethical conduct", has challenged her expulsion in the Supreme Court and is set to contest the upcoming general elections as a TMC candidate from the Krishnanagar seat in West Bengal.
Mahua Moitra and the Cash-for-Query Case
Background:
Mahua Moitra is a politician who has served as a Member of Parliament (MP) from the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC). In 2021, she was expelled from the Lok Sabha for "unethical conduct." Moitra subsequently challenged her expulsion in the Supreme Court.
Cash-for-Query Case:
In 2020, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey filed a complaint with Lokpal, alleging that Moitra had received kickbacks for raising certain questions in Parliament. Lokpal directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct an inquiry into these allegations.
CBI Investigation:
On February 16, 2023, the CBI conducted searches at several locations associated with Moitra, including her residence in Kolkata. The searches were part of the investigation into the cash-for-query case. Moitra has denied any wrongdoing.
Legal Proceedings:
Moitra has challenged her expulsion from the Lok Sabha in the Supreme Court. The hearing on her petition is scheduled for March 2023. She has also filed a petition in the Calcutta High Court seeking to quash the CBI investigation against her.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
Q1. What is the cash-for-query case? A1. It is a case in which Mahua Moitra is accused of receiving kickbacks for raising certain questions in Parliament.
Q2. Who is investigating the case? A2. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Q3. Why was Moitra expelled from the Lok Sabha? A3. For "unethical conduct."
Q4. Has Moitra been charged with any crime? A4. No, she has not been charged at this time. The CBI is still investigating the case.
Q5. What is the next step in the legal process? A5. The Supreme Court will hear Moitra's petition challenging her expulsion from the Lok Sabha in March 2023, and the Calcutta High Court will hear her petition seeking to quash the CBI investigation.
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