High-Level Probe Launched After Cash Bundle Found on Congress MP Abhishek Singhvi Seat; CCTV Footage Under Review

A high-level investigation has been initiated following the discovery of a ₹50,000 cash bundle on a Rajya Sabha seat assigned to Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi. The bundle, comprising ₹500 notes, was found during a routine anti-sabotage check on Thursday evening after the House was adjourned. The probe committee includes members from security agencies, the Rajya Sabha Secretariat, and senior MPs.

Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar informed the House about the incident on Friday morning. He clarified that the cash was found on seat number 222, currently allotted to Singhvi, who has denied any involvement. "Apparently, a wad of currency notes was recovered by the security officials from seat number 222... I was informed about this after the discovery," Dhankhar told MPs.

To ascertain how the cash ended up in the Parliament chamber, CCTV footage from the Rajya Sabha is being carefully reviewed. Security officials regularly conduct anti-sabotage checks after every parliamentary session to ensure safety, during which lost or abandoned items left by MPs are often discovered and placed at the 'lost and found' counter in the Rajya Sabha Secretariat.Reacting to the incident, Singhvi categorically denied any knowledge of the cash bundle, calling the situation "unprecedented."

"Heard of it first time now. Never heard of it till now! I carry one ₹500 note when I go to RS. First time heard of it. I reached inside the House at 12:57 pm, and the House rose at 1 pm. Then, I sat in the canteen till 1:30 pm before leaving Parliament," Singhvi posted online, expressing disbelief at how anyone could leave items, especially cash, unattended in the Parliament chamber.

Dhankhar's announcement caused a stir among MPs, with members from both the treasury and opposition benches voicing concerns. Opposition MPs demanded a thorough investigation to maintain the sanctity of the Parliament, while treasury benches called for strict accountability.

The discovery of cash during an anti-sabotage sweep has raised questions about security protocols and potential lapses. Items such as files, personal belongings, and documents are often found during these checks, but the presence of currency notes is highly unusual.

The probe committee will work to uncover the source of the cash and ensure no compromise in parliamentary procedures. "Stringent action will be taken against those responsible," Dhankhar assured.

This incident has drawn significant public attention, with calls for enhanced security and transparency in the functioning of India’s legislative chambers.