The Lokpal on Tuesday ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe against TMC leader Mahua Moitra in the “cash for query” case. The anti-corruption watchdog has ordered the probe under Section 20(3)(a) for ‘quid pro quo’ regarding questions she asked in Parliament.
It has given the CBI six months time to complete the probe and asked to file monthly reports regarding its investigation.
“We direct the CBI, under Section 20(3)(a) to investigate all aspects of the allegations made in the complaint, and submit a copy of the Investigation Report within a period of six months from the date of receipt of this order. The CBI shall also file periodical reports regarding the status of the investigation, every month,” the Lokpal said in its order.
“After careful evaluation and consideration of the entire material on record, there remains no doubt regarding the fact that the allegations levelled against Moitra, 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 (respondent public servant) at the relevant point of time,” the order read.
It further said,”What may be unethical can also constitute an offence under law, which is what the present proceedings are all about. There is sufficient prima facie evidence on record that deserves deeper scrutiny.”
In November last year, the CBI had launched a preliminary enquiry into the allegations against Moitra. After the Lokpal order, the agency will now file a case against her and launch a formal investigation.