Mahua Moitra: The Fearless Voice of Indian Politics
Mahua Moitra was born on October 12, 1974, in Kolkata, West Bengal. She attended local schools and later pursued higher education at Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts, USA, where she earned a degree in Economics and Mathematics.
Before entering politics, Moitra worked as an investment banker at JPMorgan Chase in New York and London, gaining significant experience in finance and global markets.
Mahua Moitra began her political career by joining the Indian National Congress (INC) in 2008. However, she left the INC and joined the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) in 2010 under the leadership of Mamata Banerjee.
Within the TMC, Moitra quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the General Secretary of the party's youth wing and later serving as the party’s spokesperson.
Moitra contested the 2016 West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections from the Karimpur constituency and won, marking her entry into legislative politics.
In the 2019 general elections, Moitra contested from the Krishnanagar constituency in West Bengal and won, becoming a Member of Parliament (MP) in the Lok Sabha. Her victory highlighted her growing influence within the TMC.
As an MP, Moitra gained national attention for her articulate and powerful speeches in the Lok Sabha. Her maiden speech, where she warned against the rise of authoritarianism in India, went viral and was widely praised.
Moitra is known for her strong stance on various issues, including women's rights, secularism, free speech, and human rights. She has been vocal in criticizing policies and actions she perceives as undermining democratic values.
In November 2022, Moitra faced allegations from BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who accused her of accepting money in exchange for asking questions in Parliament.
Following the cash for questions controversy, Moitra faced significant political and legal scrutiny. The controversy eventually led to her disqualification from the Lok Sabha, marking a significant setback in her political career.
Despite her vocal stance on numerous issues, Moitra has faced various legal challenges and defamation suits. These challenges have not deterred her from continuing her advocacy and speaking out against perceived injustices.
Moitra is known for her fearless and unapologetic approach to politics. Her eloquence and willingness to take on powerful opponents have made her a respected and formidable figure in Indian politics.