New Delhi
Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra has approached the Delhi High Court, challenging the Directorate of Estates’ notice to vacate a government bungalow originally allotted to her. The cancellation of the allotment followed her expulsion from the Lok Sabha. Moitra had initially contested this decision in December, prompting Justice Subramonium Prasad to advise her to seek permission from the Estates for continued occupation, citing exceptional circumstances. Despite this, the Estates issued a notice instructing Moitra to vacate immediately.
Facing potential eviction, Moitra’s plea emphasizes her duty as a Lok Sabha candidate for the upcoming 2024 polls. The plea argues that the instability in accommodation hinders her engagement with constituents and fellow politicians, particularly during the election season. While the court had earlier instructed her to approach the Estates, Justice Prasad specified that she should submit a request, and appropriate action would be taken in compliance with the law.
Expelled from the Lok Sabha on December 8 for alleged unethical conduct, Moitra has challenged the expulsion in the Supreme Court. The current petition seeks to annul the December 11 order or, as an alternative, allow Moitra to retain possession until the results of the 2024 Lok Sabha election. The petition argues that the Directorate of Estates’ order is premature since the validity of her expulsion is still pending adjudication in the Supreme Court. Living alone in Delhi with no alternative residence, Moitra requests the court to allow her to continue residing in her current house until the 2024 General Elections, pledging to pay any applicable charges for the extended stay.
