In a development surrounding the ongoing “cash-for-query” allegations, businessman Darshan Hiranandani has spoken out to refute claims of filing his explosive affidavit under pressure. These allegations were initially raised by Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, who is entangled in the same controversy.
In an interview with Times Now, Mr. Hiranandani clarified that he chose to come forward because the “cash-for-query” allegations directly and personally implicated him. In a surprising revelation, he admitted to using Mahua Moitra’s parliamentary login ID and password to post questions from Dubai. If proven, this situation could signify a breach of privilege, potentially leading to her suspension from parliament.
Describing his actions as a “crazy error of judgment” and deeply regrettable, Mr. Hiranandani expressed his embarrassment and acknowledged the indirect impact on his company. He considered it his responsibility to address the situation promptly.
“In any allegation, we prefer to come forward with the truth, and that’s what I have done in this case,” he stated. Mr. Hiranandani disclosed that his affidavit has been forwarded to both the Central Bureau of Investigation and the Parliamentary Ethics Committee.
Mahua Moitra had responded to the affidavit, alleging that the Prime Minister’s Office had exerted pressure on Mr. Hiranandani to sign a white paper, which was subsequently leaked to the press.
“Darshan Hiranandani has not been summoned by the CBI or the Ethics Committee or indeed by any investigative agency yet. Who then has he given this affidavit to,” she questioned in a statement shared on X, formerly Twitter.
Regarding the use of her login, and BJP MP Nishikant Dubey’s call for an investigation, Ms. Moitra demanded that NIC release all details of MPs publicly, demonstrating their physical presence when their IDs were accessed by their personal assistants, researchers, interns, and staff. She urged for the release of information on staff training for logins.
Following a complaint to the CBI by advocate Jai Anand Dehadrai, Mr. Dubey demanded the immediate suspension of Ms. Moitra, alleging that she accepted bribes to pose questions in parliament from Mr. Hiranandani to target the Adani group and PM Modi. He subsequently wrote to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, accusing the Trinamool MP of breach of parliamentary privilege, contempt of the House, and criminal conspiracy, with the matter now under review by the Ethics Committee.
Mahua Moitra welcomed any inquiry and highlighted multiple breach of privilege cases pending against other BJP members. She reiterated her willingness to cooperate with any motions brought against her.
In his affidavit, Mr. Hiranandani claimed that Ms. Moitra sought to attack PM Modi by targeting Adani Group’s chief Gautam Adani, sharing her parliamentary login ID to frame the questions. He agreed to the plan, believing it would garner support from Opposition-ruled states. He further alleged that Ms. Moitra received assistance from journalists, Opposition leaders, and former Adani Group employees who provided unverified information, naming Sucheta Dalal and others in this context.
The controversy continues to unfold as the Ethics Committee investigates the claims and counterclaims.
Sources By Agencies
