NEW DELHI: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday filed a chargesheet with the Lokpal in connection with the alleged ‘cash-for-query’ scam involving Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mahua Moitra.In response to directives from the anti-corruption ombudsman, the CBI in March last year filed an FIR against Mahua Moitra. The Lokpal had issued instructions to the CBI after reviewing the findings of the agency’s preliminary inquiry into allegations raised by BJP Lok Sabha member Nishikant Dubey against Mahua. The Lokpal had directed the CBI to investigate comprehensively all facets of the complaints against her within six months.Dubey has accused Mahua of soliciting cash and gifts from Dubai-based businessman Darshan Hiranandani in exchange for raising questions in the Lok Sabha to criticise industrialist Gautam Adani and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, among others. Mahua has vehemently denied these allegations. The Lokpal, however, after careful consideration, deemed the allegations against Mahua as grave and supported by substantial evidence. It emphasised the need for a thorough investigation, considering Mahua’s former position and status. The Lokpal bench, comprising Justice Abhilasha Kumari and members Archana Ramasundaram and Mahender Singh, stressed the importance of probity in public office and the detrimental effects of corruption on democratic functioning. Consequently, the Lokpal directed the CBI to conduct a comprehensive investigation into all allegations and submit a report within six months. The filing of the chargesheet against Mahua marks a significant development in the ongoing controversy surrounding the TMC MP.