A controversy unfolded in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, December 5, after a wad of currency notes was discovered during a routine anti-sabotage security check from seat number 222, assigned to Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi. The incident has sparked intense debate among parliamentary leaders, with demands for a thorough investigation into the matter.
Chairman Confirms Discovery
Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar confirmed the incident on Friday, stating:
?During the routine anti-sabotage check of the chamber after the adjournment of the House yesterday, a wad of currency notes was recovered by security officials from seat number 222, which is presently allotted to Abhishek Manu Singhvi, elected from Telangana.?
Dhankhar assured the House that a full inquiry was underway to uncover the facts surrounding the discovery.
Singhvi Denies Allegations
Responding to the allegations, Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi firmly denied any connection to the incident and expressed surprise.
?I heard of it for the first time now. I carry only one ?500 note when I go to the Rajya Sabha. I reached the House at 12:57 PM yesterday, it rose at 1 PM, and I then sat in the canteen with Sh. Ayodhya Prasad until 1:30 PM before leaving Parliament. Please quote me fully,? Singhvi clarified, distancing himself from the controversy.
Political Reactions
The incident drew mixed responses from members of the Rajya Sabha. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju supported the Chairman?s transparency in naming the seat and its occupant, emphasizing the importance of accountability.
?Why should there be an objection to the Chair pointing out the seat number and its occupant? Carrying bundles of currency notes in the House is highly inappropriate, especially as we move towards a digital India. I fully agree with the Chairman?s observation that this incident warrants a serious investigation,? Rijiju stated.
However, Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge urged caution, advising against naming any member until the investigation was concluded.
?I request that until the investigation is done and the authenticity of the incident is established, a member should not be named,? Kharge said, advocating for restraint in assigning blame prematurely.
Call for Accountability
The discovery has raised questions about the propriety and security protocols within Parliament, with several MPs emphasizing the need to uphold the dignity of the institution. While investigations are ongoing, the incident has spotlighted the importance of ensuring transparency and accountability in India?s highest legislative body.
This episode marks a rare and controversial moment in Parliament, with both ruling and opposition leaders calling for swift action to ascertain the truth.
