MP Hanuman Beniwal Raises Rajasthan MLA Corruption Allegations in Lok Sabha

Nagaur Member of Parliament and Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) supremo Hanuman Beniwal raised the issue of alleged corruption by Rajasthan MLAs in the Lok Sabha. During the parliamentary proceedings, Beniwal highlighted instances of bribery and commission-seeking in the name of developmental works in the state. He specifically referred to a recent sting operation conducted by a media house, which purportedly exposed legislators demanding illegal gratification for the release of funds.

Heated Exchange Over Bribery Allegations

Speaking in the lower house, Hanuman Beniwal questioned the conduct of several MLAs in Rajasthan. He alleged that bribes are being openly sought in exchange for clearing projects under the MLA Local Area Development (MLA LAD) funds. Beniwal claimed that the sting operation showed a BJP legislator allegedly accepting ₹10 lakh at his residence. When the Speaker attempted to intervene, noting that the matter pertains to the state government, Beniwal insisted on continuing his speech, leading to a brief procedural confrontation where his microphone was momentarily deactivated.

Details of Commission and Inflated Billing

Beniwal provided specific details regarding the alleged financial irregularities in state-run schemes. He claimed that for items like school mats, which cost between ₹4 thousand and ₹5 thousand, bills as high as ₹25 thousand to ₹30 thousand are being processed. The MP further alleged that some legislators demand a commission ranging from 40% to 50% before granting administrative approvals for local projects. He emphasized that these allegations involve members from various political parties, including the BJP, Congress, and independent candidates.

Reference to Prime Minister’s Anti-Corruption Stance

During his address, Beniwal invoked Prime Minister Narendra Modi's slogan, "Na Khaunga, Na Khane Doonga" (Neither will I take bribes, nor will I let others). He urged the central government to take decisive action against the accused MLAs to uphold the integrity of this anti-corruption commitment. Benial criticized the delay in proceedings by the Rajasthan Assembly's Ethics Committee, suggesting that the matter was being sidelined at the state level despite clear evidence presented in the public domain.

Demand for Disqualification of Members

The Nagaur MP demanded the immediate disqualification of the four MLAs allegedly involved in the corruption scandal. Drawing a parallel with the disqualification of members in the Lok Sabha over the 'cash-for-query' allegations, Beniwal argued that a similar standard of accountability should be applied to the Rajasthan Assembly. He stated that terminating the membership of these individuals, including the Khinvsar MLA and others, is necessary to send a strong message across the country. He concluded by requesting the central authorities to ensure a thorough investigation into the matter.