Cash Recovered from Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi’s Rajya Sabha Seat Sparks Controversy

A routine security check in the Rajya Sabha has turned into a major controversy, with cash bundles recovered from a seat assigned to Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi.

The incident, disclosed by Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar, has fueled a fierce political debate, with both opposition and ruling party members clashing over its implications.

Chairman’s Disclosure and Investigation

On Friday, Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar informed the House about the discovery made during a routine anti-sabotage check conducted after adjournment on Thursday.

“A wad of currency notes was recovered by security officials from seat number 222, presently allotted to Abhishek Manu Singhvi, elected from Telangana. The matter was brought to my notice, and I have ensured that an investigation is underway,” Dhankhar announced.

The Chairman highlighted the inappropriate nature of carrying cash into Parliament and called for a detailed probe into the incident.

Singhvi’s Response: Shock and Denial

Abhishek Manu Singhvi, the Congress MP at the center of the controversy, expressed astonishment at the allegations. “I carry only one ₹500 note when I go to the Rajya Sabha. This is the first time I am hearing of this,” Singhvi said.

Detailing his activities on the day of the incident, Singhvi explained that he entered the House at 12:57 PM, stayed for only three minutes before adjournment, and then spent half an hour in the canteen before leaving Parliament.

He further commented, “It is tragic and serious that such politics is being raised over this matter. A thorough investigation must determine how such an incident occurred, and any security lapses must be addressed.”

Singhvi also suggested that MPs should have lockable seats to prevent such scenarios.

Opposition Protests and Demand for JPC Probe

The discovery led to an uproar from opposition members. Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the Chairman for naming Singhvi before the investigation concluded.

Congress leaders alleged that the incident was a ploy by the ruling party to divert attention from critical issues, such as the Adani controversy.

They demanded a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe or an independent investigation to uncover the truth.

Sources within the Congress claimed, “This is an attempt to distract from pressing issues. Carrying ₹50,000 in cash is not a crime, but the timing and manner of this revelation are suspicious.”

Ruling Party’s Stance: Serious Allegations

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) viewed the incident as a grave violation of parliamentary decorum. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the Chairman’s decision to name Singhvi, questioning the appropriateness of bringing cash into Parliament.

“This incident is an attack on the dignity of the House,” BJP Chief JP Nadda asserted, demanding a detailed inquiry.

BJP MP Manoj Tiwari also called for accountability, stating, “The discovery of a cash bundle raises serious questions. This incident must be investigated thoroughly.”

Sudhanshu Trivedi, another BJP MP, criticized Congress for avoiding transparency, alleging financial impropriety. “Congress leaders seem so wealthy that they don’t even bother to account for misplaced cash,” Trivedi remarked.

Political Tensions Escalate

The incident deepened the divide between the opposition and the ruling party, with both sides exchanging barbs.

Congress accused the BJP of using the incident as a diversionary tactic, while the BJP accused Congress of undermining the dignity of Parliament.

Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi criticized the disruptions in the House, stating, “What scares the BJP MPs to the point of not wanting to run Parliament? The ministers seem more focused on protecting one industrialist than addressing people’s issues.”

Call for Transparency and Fairness

Despite the political clash, Singhvi reiterated his support for an impartial investigation. “Such incidents require clarity and resolution. If anyone can place items on seats, it compromises the security and integrity of Parliament,” Singhvi said.

Meanwhile, Chairman Dhankhar assured the House that the probe would proceed in accordance with the law, adding, “The findings will be shared with members once the investigation is completed.”

The discovery of cash in the Rajya Sabha has become a flashpoint in the ongoing tussle between the BJP and Congress.

While the investigation is expected to reveal the facts, the incident underscores the fragile state of trust and decorum within Parliament.

As both sides dig in their heels, the matter remains a test of transparency and accountability in the country’s highest legislative body.