Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra has lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission (EC) regarding what she calls a “smear campaign” orchestrated through consecutive raids by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on her properties in West Bengal. Moitra expressed concerns about the timing and intent behind these raids, suggesting that they were politically motivated and aimed at disrupting her election campaign.
The CBI conducted four raids on various properties belonging to Mahua Moitra in Kolkata, Krishnanagar, and Karimpur, related to an alleged cash-for-query case for which she was expelled from the previous Lok Sabha. Moitra highlighted that two of the raided premises were used for official purposes, including her election campaigning office and her MP office, indicating that the raids were targeted to impede her campaign efforts and harass her unlawfully.
Despite the CBI finding nothing during these raids, Moitra emphasized that the media coverage surrounding the raids had created doubt and contempt about her, benefiting her political opponents unjustly. She questioned the timing and methodology of the raids, suggesting that they were influenced by political agendas rather than genuine investigative purposes.
In her letter to the Election Commission, Moitra urged for a framework to govern CBI conduct during the model code of conduct, emphasizing the need to prevent central investigating agencies from being used for political vendettas or to favor the ruling party at the Centre. She called for proactive measures by the EC to ensure a level playing field for all political parties during elections.
Moitra’s complaint highlights the ongoing tensions and allegations of misuse of investigative agencies in the political landscape, particularly during election periods. The Election Commission is yet to respond to her letter, but her concerns raise important questions about the role and independence of investigative agencies in maintaining fair electoral processes.
Sources By Agencies
