Mahua Moitra Accuses BJP Govt of Blocking MP Duties; Supreme Court Issues Notice to Centre and Bengal

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra has moved the Supreme Court, alleging that the BJP-led central government is systematically preventing her from discharging her duties as an elected representative from Krishnanagar, West Bengal. In her plea, Moitra claims she has faced physical assaults, eviction, and obstruction of her MP Local Area Development (MPLAD) work, and has been barred from holding outdoor party or public meetings. She also cited multiple FIRs filed against her. The Supreme Court on [date] issued notices to the Centre and the West Bengal government, seeking their responses to her allegations.

Moitra, a prominent opposition voice, has been at the center of political controversies, including a cash-for-query case that led to her expulsion from the Lok Sabha in December 2023. She was later re-elected from Krishnanagar in the 2024 general elections. Her latest legal move underscores the escalating friction between opposition MPs and the central government. The Supreme Court's decision to seek replies from both the central and state governments indicates the seriousness of her claims, which, if proven, could have significant implications for democratic functioning and the rights of elected representatives.

The case is likely to intensify political tensions, with opposition parties potentially rallying behind Moitra and accusing the government of undermining democratic institutions. The Centre and West Bengal government are expected to file their responses in the coming weeks. The Supreme Court's subsequent hearings will be closely watched for any directives on protecting MPs' rights and ensuring they can perform their duties without hindrance. This development also raises broader questions about the autonomy of elected representatives and the balance of power between the executive and legislature in India.