New Delhi: Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announced on Friday that currency notes were found on the seat of Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi, prompting an investigation.
During a routine anti-sabotage check following the adjournment of the House the previous day, security officials discovered a wad of currency notes at seat number 222, assigned to Singhvi, who represents Telangana. Dhankhar stated he was informed of the incident and immediately ordered a probe.
The discovery led to uproar in the Upper House, with BJP members accusing Congress leaders. Union Minister J.P. Nadda emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating it undermines the dignity of the House and expressed confidence in a thorough investigation.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju explained that the anti-sabotage team conducted the check as part of routine protocol, and the notes were linked to a specific seat number. He questioned the objections raised by the opposition regarding the identification of the member associated with the seat, stressing that carrying large amounts of cash is inappropriate in a digital age.
In response to the allegations, Singhvi took to social media, claiming he was unaware of the situation until now. He mentioned he only carries a single Rs 500 note to the Rajya Sabha and detailed his schedule on the day of the incident, stating he arrived at 12:57 PM and left the parliament after sitting in the canteen until 1:30 PM.