Congress demands probe by SC Judge over MLAs resignation

Ahead of the November 3 by-polls in eight Assembly seats in Gujarat, the Congress on Monday demanded a court-monitored probe by a sitting judge into the accusation of a former party MLA, as purportedly shown in a sting video, that each lawmaker who resigned in the state was paid off.

New Delhi:A day after the Congress sting of Somabhai Patel went viral, the opposition party, on Monday, demanded a probe by Supreme Court Judge over the resignations of party MLAs in Gujarat just ahead of the Rajya Sabha Elections, held in June, allegedly due to 'lieu of money'.

While addressing a virtual press conference, Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi said, "By the shameless action, the legislature has become the forum for business for BJP. Trade, Trafficking and Transactional analysis of BJP in the legislatures, aggressively and repeatedly indulged by BJP."

"Somabhai Patel, with great pride, assertion, confidence and accomplishments claims that 10 crores was the minimum price for defection. He also asserts that these are the blessings of two 'Yuvrajes' of BJP. Home Minister's name is specifically been taken on the camera," he further added.

In a sting operation by Congress party, Somabhai Patel has been allegedly seen claiming that he had offered money, in March, to resign ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections.

"It is a candid camera, it is clear that which party at Center and at the state level is indulging in this practice with relentless frequency. The amount is humongous and you will realise that is what chest of enormous proportions is maintained by the BJP for these dirty tricks department," said Singhvi.

Taking a swipe at BJP top leadership for their silence over the matter, the Congress leader alleged, "There is neither reprimand nor admonition nor action nor suspension nor dismissal. It is time that the Prime Minister react at least for his own home state."

Gujarat Congress leader Arjun Modawadia alleged that all Central Agencies are working at the "behest" of BJ, demanding that an inquiry should be headed by a Supreme Court judge.

He also demanded that a attest should be registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Indian Penal Code.