In a recent development, the Delhi High Court has rejected the plea filed by Trinamool leader Mahua Moitra, seeking a stay on the order directing her to vacate the government accommodation immediately. The court ruled that Mahua Moitra, having been expelled from the Lok Sabha, no longer holds the status of a Member of Parliament (MP) and, therefore, does not have the right to continue in the allotted government accommodation.
During the court proceedings, Mahua Moitra’s counsel highlighted that she is currently undergoing medical treatment at a hospital. The counsel pleaded with the court not to evict Moitra, emphasizing her vulnerable health condition and stating that she has no alternative residence in Delhi.
“The allotment of government accommodation to the petitioner was co-terminus with her status, which has come to an end upon her expulsion. No specific Rule has been brought before this court which would deal with the eviction of Members of Parliament from the government accommodation after they cease to be the members,” the court stated in its order.
Mahua Moitra’s counsel, Brij Gupta, informed the court that she would require at least four months to vacate the property, but even a period of two to 2.5 months would be acceptable. The court questioned the need for such an extended timeline, suggesting a shorter duration for vacating the premises.
While discussing the plea, the judge expressed that a more immediate timeframe might have been considered if Moitra had requested a shorter duration. Moitra was expelled from the Lok Sabha on December 8, with the directive to vacate the government residence by January 7.
Moitra’s counsel argued that humanitarian aspects have been taken into account in similar cases, allowing individuals to stay in government accommodations for a longer period. However, the court’s decision emphasizes the termination of Moitra’s status as an MP as the basis for denying her continued stay in the allotted property.
As this legal battle unfolds, the court’s dismissal marks a significant development in the ongoing matter of Mahua Moitra’s eviction from the government accommodation.
Sources By Agencies
