Expelled BJP MP wants CBI probe into "bribe"

Malpe, Karnataka, July 24 (UNI) Expelled BJP Lok Sabha Member from Udupi, Ms Manorama Madhwaraj, today sought a probe by the CBI into the allegation made against her by some BJP leaders on receiving money for abstaining from the Trust Vote on July 22.

Speaking to reporters at her residence here, she reiterated that as she was convinced that nuclear energy would be the only answer to ease the power shortage in the country,she took the decision to abstain from voting supporting the views of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

''I have not taken this decision for any monetary benefit. I did not receive money to abstain from voting on the confidence motion moved by the Prime Minister in Parliament and I am ready to swear at Dharmastala.'' In a letter written to Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa, copy of which was made available to the press here, she urged him to recommend a CBI inquiry into the charges of receiving money.

Ms Madhwaraj said during the session on Trust Vote, she had made clear her views on Indo-US Nuclear Deal with Senior Party Leader H N Ananthkumar ''who took it lightly.'' Even the earlier doubts she had in her mind on the Hyde Act was cleared after going through the letter circulated by Mr Ram Jetmalani to every member of the House, she claimed.

Rejecting the demand by some party leaders who have demanded her resignation from MP post on the issue, she said she would not resign until the CBI inquiry was held and its outcome made known.

Ms Madhwaraj opined the Indo-US Nuclear Deal, which was ''most beneficial to the country,'' should have been supported by the BJP even though the Left parties opposed it which was 'their habit.' France had totally benefited from the use of nuclear energy and India should also be benefited, she said.

Referring to the police protection at her house after the incident of abstaining from voting, she said it was provided by the state government on its own.

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