High Court Delays Decision on Lokpal Sanction Against MP in Cash-for-Query Scam

The Delhi High Court is set to review a plea by Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra on November 21. Moitra challenges a Lokpal decision granting the CBI permission to file charges against her in a cash-for-query scam. She seeks a stay on the order, claiming procedural errors.

The Delhi High Court has announced that on November 21, it will hear the appeal of Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, who is contesting the Lokpal's approval for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to proceed with charges against her in an alleged cash-for-query scandal.

Justices Anil Khetarpal and Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar are reviewing the matter, which is currently held under a sealed cover. Moitra argues that the Lokpal's decision, issued on November 12, was flawed, violating the principles of natural justice and bypassing proper procedures outlined in the Lokpal Act.

Her petition criticizes the Lokpal for not considering her defense before allowing the chargesheet and for succumbing to merely endorsing the investigation report. Moitra seeks a halt on the sanction order and the CBI's subsequent actions until her case is heard. The initial allegations involve accepting bribes for compromising parliamentary duties.

(With inputs from agencies.)