Cash-for-query controversy: Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra expelled from LS

The Lok Sabha passed a resolution to expel Mahua Moitra based on the report of the Ethics Committee over the 'cash-for-query' complaint.

Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Prahlad Joshi, tabled the resolution to expel Moitra, based on the Committee's finding.

The resolution was passed by a voice vote in the lower house.

After her expulsion, the opposition members walked out of Lok Sabha.

Earlier, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla did not permit Mahua Moitra to speak in the House on Ethics Committee recommendation, saying "she got an opportunity at the panel meet".

Outside the House, Moitra said: “The Ethics Committee has no power to expel. This is the beginning of BJP’s end.” “You hate minorities, you hate women,” she said attacking the Modi government."Ethics panel findings solely based on written testimonies of two persons whose versions contradict each other in material terms" she added.

On November 6, the Ethics Committee of Lok Sabha recommended the expulsion of TMC MP from the house over the cash for query allegations.

The committee also recommended an “intense, legal, institutional inquiry” by the government in a time-bound manner because of the “highly objectionable, unethical, heinous and criminal conduct” by her.

Reacting to the expulsion, West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee said: “I am telling you that Mahua (Moitra) is a victim of the circumstances. I strongly condemn it. Our party will fight along with the INDIA alliance. It is unfortunate for the democracy."

Meanwhile, the ruling BJP claims that Mahua Moitra had jeopardised national security by sharing her login and password with Hiranandani.

Mahua Moitra faced the allegations of asking questions in Lok Sabha to target Gautam Adani at the behest of businessman Darshan Hiranandani.

The TMC MP has denied charges of taking bribes but admitted to sharing her parliamentary log-in details with Hiranandani.

(With UNI inputs)