A political controversy erupted after a wad of cash was reportedly found under the bench of Congress leader and MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi in the Rajya Sabha.
BJP Questions Congress Over Cash Discovery
BJP MP and former national spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi took a sharp dig at Congress leaders, alleging unaccounted wealth.
“Congress leaders have so much money that they don’t even bother to account for it when it’s left behind in Parliament. Since no leader came to claim the money, it raises doubts about its source. This matter should be thoroughly investigated,” Trivedi said.
Echoing these sentiments, BJP MP Manoj Tiwari called the incident shocking, adding, “The Vice President has ordered an inquiry. It’s surprising that such incidents are happening in Parliament.”
BJP MP Ravi Kishan also called for an investigation, emphasizing the serious nature of the situation.
Congress Responds
Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi, whose allocated seat (number 222) is at the center of the controversy, expressed astonishment. He dismissed allegations and highlighted the possibility of security lapses.
“I am quite astonished to hear about this. I reached the House for three minutes before its adjournment and then left. How can such an issue be politicized? If there are security lapses, they must be exposed,” Singhvi stated.
He suggested measures to secure MPs’ seats to prevent such incidents and urged full cooperation in the investigation.
Rajya Sabha Chairman Orders Probe
Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar informed the House that during a routine anti-sabotage check, security personnel discovered the cash under Singhvi’s seat. He confirmed that an investigation is underway.
Congress Demands Fair Inquiry
Inside the House, Congress President and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the Chair for naming Singhvi before the investigation concluded.
“Until the investigation is complete, no member should be named publicly. Such actions set a bad precedent,” Kharge said.
Political Fallout
The incident has led to heated exchanges between the BJP and Congress, adding to an already tense winter session of Parliament. With both parties demanding a thorough investigation, the incident highlights growing political tensions over accountability and transparency in legislative proceedings.
The matter is under investigation, and further updates are awaited.