Lokpal Seeks Extension in Mahua Moitra Prosecution Case, Citing Winter Holidays

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The Lokpal, India's anti-corruption ombudsman, has requested an additional two months to reconsider its decision to grant permission for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to file a charge sheet against Trinamool Congress (TMC) lawmaker Mahua Moitra. Moitra is accused of accepting expensive gifts in exchange for posting questions on the Lok Sabha portal on her behalf. The Delhi High Court had previously set aside the Lokpal's decision, citing non-compliance with the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. The court directed the Lokpal to reconsider the issue of sanction afresh within one month. However, the Lokpal has now sought an extension, stating that it was closed during the winter holidays and requires additional time. Moitra was accused of accepting gifts from a Dubai-based businessman in return for posting questions on the Lok Sabha portal. The allegations emerged in October 2023, when a BJP lawmaker wrote to the Lok Sabha Speaker and the Lokpal. The Lokpal had initially ordered the CBI to file an FIR against Moitra in March 2023, but the court's recent order has led to the current delay. Moitra, who was expelled from the Lok Sabha in December 2023 but retained her seat in the 2024 general elections, has denied the allegations and claimed that sharing passwords with office staff is a common practice among lawmakers.