The Supreme Court has issued notice on a petition by the Lokpal challenging the Delhi High Court’s decision that set aside the sanction for the CBI to file a charge sheet against Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra in a cash-for-query case. The Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant-led Bench asked for responses from Moitra, the CBI, and BJP MP Nishikant Dubey within three weeks.
During the hearing, the apex court stayed the Delhi High Court’s directive for the Lokpal to decide on granting sanction to the CBI within 60 days. The court clarified that the Lokpal cannot currently direct the CBI to file a charge sheet against Moitra and that no coercive action will be taken against her.
The Bench mentioned that it would review the powers of the Lokpal under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. The Lokpal, represented by senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, expressed concerns over the Delhi High Court’s interpretation of the Act, emphasizing the need for clarity on the procedure for investigations and sanctions.
The Lokpal sought a definitive ruling from the Supreme Court on the proper procedures for investigations and sanctions. It argued that the Delhi High Court’s judgment misinterpreted the statutory framework and could impact the functioning of the anti-corruption body.
