1. TMC leader Mahua Moitra is served with a new notice to vacate her government bungalow in Delhi.
2. The dispute stems from Moitra’s expulsion from the Lok Sabha on December 8, 2023, following allegations of “unethical conduct.”
3. The accusations include accepting gifts from businessman Darshan Hiranandani and sharing her Parliament website credentials with him.
New Delhi, Jan 17: TMC leader Mahua Moitra is facing a new notice to vacate her government bungalow in Delhi, marking the latest development in the legal dispute surrounding her official residence.
The controversy began after Moitra was expelled from the Lok Sabha on December 8, 2023, over allegations of “unethical conduct,” including accepting gifts from businessman Darshan Hiranandani and sharing her Parliament website credentials with him. Subsequently, her right to occupy the government-allotted bungalow was revoked.
A notice from the Office of the Estate Officer and Assistant Director of Estates (Litigation), Directorate of Estates, stated, “The Applicant vide Letter dated 08.01.2024 requested to initiate eviction proceedings against you under the provisions of the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorized Occupants) Act, 1971…”
To retain her residence, Moitra approached the Delhi High Court. On January 4, the court directed her to seek permission from the Directorate of Estates (DoE), citing rules that permit an extension of up to six months in exceptional circumstances, subject to certain conditions.
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The court refrained from commenting on the merits of her case but emphasized the importance of following due process in eviction proceedings.
Despite her legal endeavors, the issue remains unresolved. The DoE issued a fresh notice, instructing Moitra to appear before the agency by January 16 to justify an extension.
As of the latest reports, officials from the DoE are ready to ensure the prompt vacation of the bungalow.
This ongoing legal battle underscores the stringent enforcement of rules governing government accommodations and the repercussions faced by public officials when they lose their parliamentary positions.
