Union Information Technology Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar today spoke out on the alleged “cash for asking” controversy involving Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, citing a question she raised on reports of a government ban on 54 apps. In a post on
“I have learned from news reports that this parliamentary question was probably asked by an MP on behalf of a data center company. If true, this is indeed shocking and embarrassing,” the minister posted on X, formerly Twitter, pointing to questions posed to him. of the Hiranandani group, on behalf of whom Ms Moitra is accused of asking parliamentary questions.
“It is true that this company actively and aggressively lobbied for data localization. The language in PQ is very similar to the language (linking the need for data localization to data breaches) to the language used when the head of this company met with me. I am not aware of it or I am aware of the full facts and background of this – but if it is true then it is a terrible mockery and abuse of PQs,” Mr Chandrasekhar’s post read.
I have heard from news reports that this parliamentary question was probably asked by a member of parliament on behalf of a data center company.
If true, this is indeed shocking and shameful 🤮🤬
It is true that this company actively and aggressively lobbied for data localization.… pic.twitter.com/slrtrNLNSy
— Rajeev Chandrasekhar 🇮🇳 (@Rajeev_GoI) October 16, 2023
Hiranandani Group is trying to gain the first mover advantage when it comes to data localization. Data localization is an essential part of the government’s flagship Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) program and great care is being taken to avoid monopoly in the area.
Sources said the Hiranandani Group has raised concerns about IT ministry contracts but the ministry has not fulfilled their requests.
Days later, the question Ms Moitra asked was whether the government had indeed banned 54 apps, and if so, what the details were. She also wondered whether the leakage of apps and data of Indian citizens could also happen from other countries along with their data.
She also questioned whether data localization requirements would be needed for all sensitive personal data while the Data Protection Bill is pending, as well as its details.
Yesterday, Nishikant Dubey of the BJP demanded immediate suspension of Mahua Moitra, alleging that she had “accepted bribes to raise questions” in Darshan Hiranandani’s Parliament with the aim of attacking the Adani group and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Mr Dubey has written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, accusing Ms Moitra of breach of parliamentary privilege, contempt of the House of Representatives and criminal conspiracy.
Ms Moitra, who said she welcomes any form of investigation, also today posted a strong denial of the IT minister’s allegations.
“Sir, I am a member of IT Comm & JPC in the field of data protection. This is a valid question for all Indians. If an enemy nation can steal data from apps, can’t they steal Indian user data stored abroad? Don’t insult my intelligence by claiming I’m in front of others. Something Ruia bag men do,” she posted on X.
