Weaponization of Parliamentary panel, Mahua's first reaction to Lok Sabha expulsion

Shortly after Lok Sabha expelled Mahua Moitra, she contested the Ethics Committee's authority, claiming it lacked the power to expel her. Moitra, a TMC MP, boldly stated that this action marks the beginning of the BJP's downfall.

Moitra criticized the Ethics Committee's decision, highlighting its reliance on contradictory written testimonies from two individuals. She asserted that her practices, considered routine and encouraged in the Lok Sabha, were unfairly penalized.

The expulsion came as Lok Sabha found Moitra guilty of sharing her credentials and accepting gifts from a businessman in exchange for favors. Amid a contentious debate where Moitra was denied a chance to speak, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi tabled a motion for her expulsion, passed by a voice vote as opposition members walked out.

The Ethics Committee's recommendation for Moitra's expulsion was rooted in the "cash-for-query" allegation, a move met with Moitra's adamant opposition to the decision and process.