'Credible Material To Prosecute Mahua Moitra': CBI Moves Lokpal For Sanction

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has formally moved the Lokpal seeking sanction to prosecute Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra in connection with the alleged 'cash-for-query' scam, according to documents accessed by Times Now.The Lokpal order, which includes the recommendations and conclusions of the CBI report submitted on June 30, 2025, states there is "credible material & evidence to prosecute Mahua Moitra".The probe stems from allegations initially raised by BJP Lok Sabha member Nishikant Dubey, who accused Mahua of soliciting cash and gifts from Dubai-based businessman Darshan Hiranandani in return for raising parliamentary questions targeting industrialist Gautam Adani and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Mahua has vehemently

denied these claims, calling them baseless.In March 2024, acting on Lokpal directives, the CBI filed an FIR against Mahua Moitra. The Lokpal had instructed the agency to investigate all facets of the complaints comprehensively within six months, following its preliminary review of the allegations.After careful consideration, the Lokpal deemed the allegations grave and supported by substantial evidence, emphasising the need for thorough investigation due to Mahua’s former position and status. The Lokpal bench, comprising Justice Abhilasha Kumari, Archana Ramasundaram, and Mahender Singh, highlighted “the importance of probity in public office and the detrimental effects of corruption on democratic functioning.”The filing of the CBI report and the subsequent move for sanction marks a significant development in the ongoing controversy surrounding the TMC MP, underscoring the seriousness of the alleged cash-for-query allegations.