Lokpal calls SEBI chief, complainants for 'oral hearing' over corruption charges

Lokpal calls SEBI chief and complainants for oral hearing on corruption complaints based on Hindenburg Research report.

Anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal has called SEBI chief Madhabi Puri Buch and also complainants, including Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, for an "oral hearing" next month in connection with corruption complaints being heard by it, alleging impropriety and conflict of interest on the basis of a Hindenburg Research report, according to an official order.

The Lokpal had on November 8 sought Ms. Buch's "explanation" on the complaints filed by Ms. Moitra, a Lok Sabha member, and two others.

Ms. Buch, the chairperson of capital markets regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), was asked to submit her response within four weeks.

Hearing the case, the Lokpal said the named RPS (respondent public servant) "has filed her response by way of affidavit sworn on 07.12.2024 in time, raising preliminary issues as well as giving explanation allegation-wise".

"Further, we deem it appropriate that the RPS as well as the complainants can be given opportunity of oral hearing to clarify their positions taken in the complaints or the affidavit, as the case may be," says the December 19 order signed by Lokpal chairperson Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and five other members.

Accordingly, the Lokpal has asked the registry to issue notices to the RPS as well as the complainant(s) to avail of the opportunity of oral hearing on January 28.

"It will be open to the RPS as well as the complainant to authorise an advocate to espouse their cause, if they so desire at the time of oral hearing," the order said.