Cash-for-query row: CBI initiates preliminary probe against TMC MP Mahua Moitra

The probe has been directed by the Lokpal, reported NDTV.

“We have initiated an inquiry on orders of Lokpal. We have not registered a Preliminary Enquiry or FIR against Mahua Moitra as yet," CBI sources told India Today TV.

The start of this preliminary inquiry is the beginning of the investigative process, during which the CBI will determine whether to pursue a criminal case against the MP based on the findings of the inquiry.

During a preliminary inquiry, the CBI is not authorised to make arrests or conduct searches.

However, it is empowered to gather information, examine documents, and question the Trinamool MP.

As this inquiry stems from the Lokpal's directives, the subsequent report will be submitted to the anti-corruption body, said the NDTV report.

The CBI action in this case has been initiated following a complaint lodged by Supreme Court lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai.

Dehadrai accused Moitra of accepting bribes from Darshan Hiranandani to ask questions in Parliament.

Following Dehadrai's complaint to BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, Speaker Om Birla referred the matter to the Ethics Committee.

Dubey also filed a complaint with the Lokpal. In an affidavit to the committee, Hiranandani claimed that Moitra shared her MP email ID for receiving information and later provided her Parliament login and password for him to post questions directly.

"Mahua Moitra wanted to quickly make a name for herself at the national level. She was advised by her friends and advisors that the shortest possible route to fame is by personally attacking PM Narendra Modi, "Hiranandani had alleged in the affidavit, adding, "Ms Moitra thought that the only way to attack PM Modi is by attacking Gautam Adani as both were contemporaries and belong to the same state of Gujarat."

Earlier this month, the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee investigated the allegations against Moitra and adopted a report recommending her disqualification from the Lower House. The committee has submitted its findings to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.