Last Updated: October 27, 2023, 15:14 IST
The firebrand TMC member has sought from the Lok Sabha ethic committee in connection with the ‘cash for query’ case. (Photo: PTI/File)
The Ethics Committee of Lok Sabha, in its first meeting to address the “cash for query” accusation against Moitra, summoned her to be present before the committee on October 31
Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mahua Moitra has sought more time from the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee to submit a response to the summons in connection with the cash-for-questions allegations. She expressed her inability to appear before the committee on October 31. The TMC MP, in her reply, said she can appear in person before the committee at any date and time of their choice after November 5.
“I represent the state of West Bengal where Durga Puja is the biggest festival. I am already committed to attending numerous pre-scheduled Vijaya Dashami Sammelans/meetings (both government and political) in my constituency from 30th October to 4th November 2023 and cannot be in Delhi on 31st October 2023,” Moitra wrote in her reply.
The TMP MP further said the summons hit the news “way before” the official letter was emailed to her.
Chairman, Ethics Comm announced my 31/10 summons on live TV way before official letter emailed to me at 19:20 hrs. All complaints & suo moto affidavits also released to media. I look forward to deposing immediately after my pre- scheduled constituency programmes end on Nov 4. pic.twitter.com/ARgWeSQiHJ— Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) October 27, 2023
Mahua Moitra expressed her eagerness to defend herself against the complaints of BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai but the committee summoned and heard the complainants first.
The Ethics Committee of Lok Sabha, in its first meeting to address the “cash for query” accusation against Moitra, summoned her to be present before the committee on October 31.
The complainant, BJP parliamentarian Nishikant Dubey, along with advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai, had recorded their statements in front of the panel.
“I have told the truth before the Committee. All members of the committee enquired from me cordially. I answered to all that was asked from me,” Dehadrai said after his meeting with the committee.