CBI should investigate Mamata's role in Saradha scam: Brinda Karat

Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Brinda Karat on Saturday demanded that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee should be questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the Saradha chit-fund scam.

"It is very clear from Mamataji's reactions that she is more interested in defending her party people and her own role in this rather than defending the interest of lakhs of investors who have lost their money," she told ANI here.

Karat, who was reacting to Mamata's criticism of the BJP-led government at the Centre following the arrest of West Bengal Transport Minister Madan Matra in connection with the scam, said the Left Front would be taking out a procession in Kolkata today demanding that the CBI should immediately investigate the TMC chief's role.

"Mamata should be called by the CBI and questioned as to her role because everybody knows how close Madan Mitra is to Mamata Banerjee," she added.

Taking strong exception to Mitra's arrest by the CBI in connection with the Saradha scam, Mamata had yesterday termed it illegal and unconstitutional.

"I dare the Prime Minister and the BJP leadership to arrest me," she said while alleging vindictive politics by the Centre.

Mitra's arrest has come as a major setback for the West Bengal Government as the CBI had earlier last month arrested TMC lawmaker Srinjoy Bose in connection with the scam.