Fri Dec 06 22:09:34 UTC 2024: **Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi Denies Cash Found Under His Parliament Seat**
NEW DELHI – A bundle of ₹50,000 in cash was discovered under the seat assigned to Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi in the Rajya Sabha, according to Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar. The discovery, made during a routine security check on Friday after the house adjourned, prompted an immediate investigation.
While Dhankhar announced the finding in the house, Congress members, led by Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, protested, arguing that Singhvi’s name should not have been revealed before the investigation concluded. Kharge insisted that naming the MP before the investigation was complete was inappropriate.
Singhvi vehemently denied the allegations, stating that he only carries ₹500 when attending Rajya Sabha sessions. He provided an alibi, explaining his presence in the Parliament and subsequent departure with fellow MP Awadhesh Prasad. Despite the denial, Singhvi welcomed the investigation, suggesting improved security measures for members’ seats to prevent such incidents in the future.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju defended Dhankhar’s announcement, questioning the appropriateness of carrying large sums of cash in Parliament and supporting a thorough investigation. The incident has sparked debate within the Parliament regarding security protocols and the handling of such investigations. The investigation is ongoing.
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