CBI officer AK Bassi, who had been investigating Special Director Rakesh Asthana, has moved the Supreme Court challenging his transfer.&nbsp;

Bassi was transferred to Port Blair in the Andamans after the government sent <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-vs-cbi-alok-verma-did-not-back-up-allegations-against-rakesh-asthana-says-goverment-173201">CBI Director Alok Verma</a> and Special Director Rakesh Asthana (the agency's second in command) on leave.&nbsp;

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AK Bassi says he has incriminating evidence against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RakeshAsthana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RakeshAsthana</a> in bribery case and asks Supreme Court to call for evidence of technical surveillance. Bassi also seeks setting up a Special Investigating Team (SIT) to investigate charges against Asthana. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CBI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CBI</a> <a href="https://t.co/M1glPWvhE4">https://t.co/M1glPWvhE4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1057141776488775680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Verma and Asthana had been feuding with both accusing the other of corruption.&nbsp;

Verma had written to the CVC in 2017 before Asthana joined the agency saying he was being investigated, by the CBI, on corruption charges. And that he should therefore not be inducted into the CBI.&nbsp;

After Asthana was inducted into the CBI, he wrote to the CVC and the Cabinet Secretary saying Verma was guilty of corruption. Asthana is seen as being close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah.&nbsp;

Asthana was the police officer who probed the Godhra train-burning case, which led to the Gujarat riots of 2002. He had also probed the Sohrabuddin Shaikh fake encounter case in which Amit Shah was an accused. The BJP president was later dismissed from the case.&nbsp;

Two weeks ago, the CBI filed an FIR against Asthana. In the FIR, Asthana was accused of asking for a bribe to let the businessman Satish Sana off the hook in the Moin Qureshi case.&nbsp;

On Monday, the Supreme Court refused to give Bassi an urgent hearing.&nbsp;

Bassi said he had incriminating evidence against Asthana. Bassi also aksed for the setting up of a Special Investigation Team to probe the bribery charge against Asthana.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

CBI officer AK Bassi, who had been investigating Special Director Rakesh Asthana, has moved the Supreme Court challenging his transfer. Bassi was transferred to Port Blair in the Andamans after the government sent CBI Director Alok Verma and Special Director Rakesh Asthana (the agency's second in command) on leave.

CBI officer AK Bassi, who had been investigating Special Director Rakesh Asthana, has moved the Supreme Court challenging his transfer. Bassi was transferred to Port Blair in the Andamans after the government sent CBI Director Alok Verma and Special Director Rakesh Asthana (the agency's second in command) on leave. AK Bassi says he has incriminating evidence against #RakeshAsthana in bribery case and asks Supreme Court to call for evidence of technical surveillance. Bassi also seeks setting up a Special Investigating Team (SIT) to investigate charges against Asthana. #CBI https://t.co/M1glPWvhE4 — ANI (@ANI) October 30, 2018 × Verma and Asthana had been feuding with both accusing the other of corruption. Verma had written to the CVC in 2017 before Asthana joined the agency saying he was being investigated, by the CBI, on corruption charges. And that he should therefore not be inducted into the CBI. After Asthana was inducted into the CBI, he wrote to the CVC and the Cabinet Secretary saying Verma was guilty of corruption. Asthana is seen as being close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah. Asthana was the police officer who probed the Godhra train-burning case, which led to the Gujarat riots of 2002. He had also probed the Sohrabuddin Shaikh fake encounter case in which Amit Shah was an accused. The BJP president was later dismissed from the case. Two weeks ago, the CBI filed an FIR against Asthana. In the FIR, Asthana was accused of asking for a bribe to let the businessman Satish Sana off the hook in the Moin Qureshi case. On Monday, the Supreme Court refused to give Bassi an urgent hearing. Bassi said he had incriminating evidence against Asthana. Bassi also aksed for the setting up of a Special Investigation Team to probe the bribery charge against Asthana.

CBI vs CBI: Officer investigating Asthana moves SC, says he has evidence of bribery

The din over the pre-Diwali implosion within the CBI refuses to die down as the Supreme Court on Friday directed the Central Vigilance Commissioner to complete the probe against CBI chief Alok Verma within two weeks. Verma, along with his deputy, special director Rakesh Asthana, was forced to go on leave by the Modi government in a midnight order last week. Verma had knocked on the doors of the apex court challenging the government order.

A former SC judge shall oversee the CVC enquiry against Verma. The court also reined in interim director Nageswara Rao asking him to refrain from taking policy decisions till pending enquiry.

The drama over the feud between CBI’s two top bosses spilled over in the courtroom on Friday when the SC refused to hear Asthana’s petition on the ground that his petition was not listed. The Centre pleaded the CVC inquiry should also include enquiry against Asthana but the Court dismissed it saying it was only concerned with Verma’s case.

Challenging the government order, Verma cites the SC-mandated order that protects the two-year tenure of the CBI director. Also, that the concurrence of the committee responsible for the selection of the CBI director has to be taken to transfer the CBI director, which, in his case, has been bypassed by the Centre. But Verma’s petition does not stop at just that.

In his petition Verma builds his case to suggest how political influence is being brought to bear upon the investigating agency, which is not always explicit or in writing. “More often than not, it is tacit, and requires considerable courage to withstand it.”

While Verma’s plea is confined to restoring his authority and position for the rest of his term, his petition does touch upon the grey areas within which the CBI has to mostly operate. By raking up the issue of political influence, Verma is not stating anything new but only confirming the fears that the CBI, after all, ends up as handmaid of the powers-that-be.

The CBI was set up in 1963 with the exclusive motive of investigating complicated cases of crimes such as murder and kidnapping. It soon established its reputation as India’s foremost investigating agency, gradually taking up cases of terrorism also. But the criminal-politician nexus grew and matters reached a head in the Eighties.

The judiciary’s pro-active interference led to many high-profile cases landing up at the CBI’s doorstep. As the economy opened up, it also flung its doors wider for financial corruption of humongous magnitude.

No wonder, in 1987, the CBI was divided into several divisions, the prominent being the anti-corruption wing, the economic offences section, and the special crimes division.

As the country entered the coalition era in the Nineties, political parties dropped all pretences of safeguarding CBI’s integrity. The CBI was used not merely as a stick to beat one’s political rival with but also to keep the coalition together and the government afloat.

So despite the CBI investigating cases of Taj corridor or disproportionate assets, regional satraps like Mulayam Singh Yadav and Mayawati, for instance, were being courted and browbeaten as the popularity of the ruling party waxed and waned.

Majority governments used ‘tacit influence’– the kind Verma talks about in his petition – rather ingeniously. Therefore, the CBI looked the other way when Jagdish Tytler was discharged from the lower courts in cases of anti-Sikh riots of 1984.

It wasn’t much different for other celebrated cases like the Bofors, involving mega bribes and Quattrocchi. The allegations of political interference have only amplified with the passing years.

By 2012, the new CBI director Ranjit Sinha under UPA-2 took it to a different level, trying desperately to be more loyal than the king. It was reported that the accused in 2G and coal scam cases had access to Sinha’s official residence.

Meat exporter Moin Qureshi, linked to the current CBI crisis, involved in several cases of corruption and money laundering, reportedly visited the official residence of CBI director Ranjit Kumar 70 times during 2013-14.

The current crisis of credibility in the CBI has all the shades of yesterday once more. Only that this time the CBI is at war with itself. Verma has accused Asthana of “creating hurdles” in decisions crucial to the progress of investigation of certain sensitive cases and has “concocted evidence” to malign his reputation.

The big question is why do governments need a pliant man in CBI; what does it say about the integrity of the agency? How can we ensure a climate of fair and impartial investigation? Will the current crisis serve as a wake-up call for decision makers to consider granting more autonomy to the CBI that minimises incidence of conflict of interest or, better still, insulates it from any “outside influence”?

The CBI implosion comes at a time when political parties are girding their loins for yet another battle for Lok Sabha. Opposition parties gave a political twist to the CBI feud linking it to Rafale fighter scam. They claimed Verma was forced to exit because he had stumbled upon complaints that linked Modi government to the Rafale scam.

All eyes shall be on the Supreme Court on November 12 when it takes stock of the CVC report. The apex court’s decision shall not only have a bearing on the fate of CBI but shall also influence the course of politics which is being increasingly determined by the narrative of political corruption.

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-more-than-just-a-turf-war-2680022">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The din over the pre-Diwali implosion within the CBI refuses to die down as the Supreme Court on Friday directed the Central Vigilance Commissioner to complete the probe against CBI chief Alok Verma within two weeks.

The din over the pre-Diwali implosion within the CBI refuses to die down as the Supreme Court on Friday directed the Central Vigilance Commissioner to complete the probe against CBI chief Alok Verma within two weeks. Verma, along with his deputy, special director Rakesh Asthana, was forced to go on leave by the Modi government in a midnight order last week. Verma had knocked on the doors of the apex court challenging the government order. A former SC judge shall oversee the CVC enquiry against Verma. The court also reined in interim director Nageswara Rao asking him to refrain from taking policy decisions till pending enquiry. The drama over the feud between CBI’s two top bosses spilled over in the courtroom on Friday when the SC refused to hear Asthana’s petition on the ground that his petition was not listed. The Centre pleaded the CVC inquiry should also include enquiry against Asthana but the Court dismissed it saying it was only concerned with Verma’s case. Challenging the government order, Verma cites the SC-mandated order that protects the two-year tenure of the CBI director. Also, that the concurrence of the committee responsible for the selection of the CBI director has to be taken to transfer the CBI director, which, in his case, has been bypassed by the Centre. But Verma’s petition does not stop at just that. In his petition Verma builds his case to suggest how political influence is being brought to bear upon the investigating agency, which is not always explicit or in writing. “More often than not, it is tacit, and requires considerable courage to withstand it.” While Verma’s plea is confined to restoring his authority and position for the rest of his term, his petition does touch upon the grey areas within which the CBI has to mostly operate. By raking up the issue of political influence, Verma is not stating anything new but only confirming the fears that the CBI, after all, ends up as handmaid of the powers-that-be. The CBI was set up in 1963 with the exclusive motive of investigating complicated cases of crimes such as murder and kidnapping. It soon established its reputation as India’s foremost investigating agency, gradually taking up cases of terrorism also. But the criminal-politician nexus grew and matters reached a head in the Eighties. The judiciary’s pro-active interference led to many high-profile cases landing up at the CBI’s doorstep. As the economy opened up, it also flung its doors wider for financial corruption of humongous magnitude. No wonder, in 1987, the CBI was divided into several divisions, the prominent being the anti-corruption wing, the economic offences section, and the special crimes division. As the country entered the coalition era in the Nineties, political parties dropped all pretences of safeguarding CBI’s integrity. The CBI was used not merely as a stick to beat one’s political rival with but also to keep the coalition together and the government afloat. So despite the CBI investigating cases of Taj corridor or disproportionate assets, regional satraps like Mulayam Singh Yadav and Mayawati, for instance, were being courted and browbeaten as the popularity of the ruling party waxed and waned. Majority governments used ‘tacit influence’– the kind Verma talks about in his petition – rather ingeniously. Therefore, the CBI looked the other way when Jagdish Tytler was discharged from the lower courts in cases of anti-Sikh riots of 1984. It wasn’t much different for other celebrated cases like the Bofors, involving mega bribes and Quattrocchi. The allegations of political interference have only amplified with the passing years. By 2012, the new CBI director Ranjit Sinha under UPA-2 took it to a different level, trying desperately to be more loyal than the king. It was reported that the accused in 2G and coal scam cases had access to Sinha’s official residence. Meat exporter Moin Qureshi, linked to the current CBI crisis, involved in several cases of corruption and money laundering, reportedly visited the official residence of CBI director Ranjit Kumar 70 times during 2013-14. The current crisis of credibility in the CBI has all the shades of yesterday once more. Only that this time the CBI is at war with itself. Verma has accused Asthana of “creating hurdles” in decisions crucial to the progress of investigation of certain sensitive cases and has “concocted evidence” to malign his reputation. The big question is why do governments need a pliant man in CBI; what does it say about the integrity of the agency? How can we ensure a climate of fair and impartial investigation? Will the current crisis serve as a wake-up call for decision makers to consider granting more autonomy to the CBI that minimises incidence of conflict of interest or, better still, insulates it from any “outside influence”? The CBI implosion comes at a time when political parties are girding their loins for yet another battle for Lok Sabha. Opposition parties gave a political twist to the CBI feud linking it to Rafale fighter scam. They claimed Verma was forced to exit because he had stumbled upon complaints that linked Modi government to the Rafale scam. All eyes shall be on the Supreme Court on November 12 when it takes stock of the CVC report. The apex court’s decision shall not only have a bearing on the fate of CBI but shall also influence the course of politics which is being increasingly determined by the narrative of political corruption. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

More than just a turf war

The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday agreed to hear the petition on the internal feud between <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-top-boss-and-deputy-removed-nageswar-rao-takes-interim-charge-173104">Director and special director of CBI</a> and the consequent decision of Centre to ask ex-CBI top boss Alok Verma to go on leave.&nbsp;

However, as per available information, Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana both have been asked to proceed on leave pending inquiry with the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC).&nbsp;

The petition was filed by former Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) director, Alok Verma who moved Supreme Court against the order on him being sent on leave.&nbsp;

His plea will be heard by the Supreme Court on Friday.

Earlier on Tuesday night, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) top boss Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana, the special director who is the No 2 at CBI have been asked to go on leave in the midst of an internal rift over bribery allegations against the latter.&nbsp;CBI joint director Nageshwar Rao took over the charge of the investigation agency as new interim chief.
<img alt="CBI" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d351c90-3d51-4ae2-975e-7d12728c8c9c" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/CBI_0.jpg" />
Nageshwar Rao, a 1986 batch Indian Police Service officer of the Orissa cadre, hails from Telangana's Warangal district.&nbsp;

“The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved that during the period of the subsistence of the aforesaid interim measure, cited in reference above, Shri M Nageshwar Rao, IPS, presently working as Joint Director, CBI shall look after duties and functions of Director CBI and shall take over the duties and functions with immediate effect,” the government notification read.

The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday agreed to hear the petition on the internal feud between Director and special director of CBI and the consequent decision of Centre to ask ex-CBI top boss Alok Verma to go on leave.

The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday agreed to hear the petition on the internal feud between Director and special director of CBI and the consequent decision of Centre to ask ex-CBI top boss Alok Verma to go on leave. However, as per available information, Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana both have been asked to proceed on leave pending inquiry with the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC). The petition was filed by former Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) director, Alok Verma who moved Supreme Court against the order on him being sent on leave. His plea will be heard by the Supreme Court on Friday. Earlier on Tuesday night, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) top boss Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana, the special director who is the No 2 at CBI have been asked to go on leave in the midst of an internal rift over bribery allegations against the latter. CBI joint director Nageshwar Rao took over the charge of the investigation agency as new interim chief. Nageshwar Rao, a 1986 batch Indian Police Service officer of the Orissa cadre, hails from Telangana's Warangal district. “The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved that during the period of the subsistence of the aforesaid interim measure, cited in reference above, Shri M Nageshwar Rao, IPS, presently working as Joint Director, CBI shall look after duties and functions of Director CBI and shall take over the duties and functions with immediate effect,” the government notification read.

CBI chief Alok Verma moves Supreme Court challenging govt's leave order

Launching a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sending Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Director Alok Verma on leave, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday said that the former acted out of fear as he was involved in corruption.

"The Prime Minister has put Rs 30,000 crore in the pocket of Anil Ambani after stealing from the Air Force, and the youth. The country knows about it. The Prime Minister can run, but can`t hide from the truth. It will come out. Removing the CBI director will not make any difference. The truth will come out in the end," the Gandhi scion said after leaving Lodhi Colony police station, where he was taken after being detained for protesting outside the CBI headquarters.

During the demonstration, several party workers marched towards the CBI headquarters with their president.&nbsp;

Protestors raised slogans and placards as their party president sat atop a crowded truck amidst tight security. A supporter was seen sitting inside a cage with a placard that read 'the CBI.'

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP South) Vijay Kumar said that eight leaders and 150 workers of the Congress were detained for 20 minutes before being released.

The grand old party had called for nationwide protests outside the offices of the CBI.

Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee chief Raj Babbar, who was leading a protest in Lucknow, was also detained. Police also used water cannons to disperse protestors in Chandigarh.

The government recently sent Alok Verma and his deputy Rakesh Asthana on leave after both levelled allegations of accepting bribes at each other.&nbsp;

However, the CBI on Thursday informed that Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana would continue to remain the CBI Director and Special Director, respectively.

Launching a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sending Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Director Alok Verma on leave, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday said that the former acted out of fear as he was involved in corruption.

Launching a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sending Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Director Alok Verma on leave, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday said that the former acted out of fear as he was involved in corruption. "The Prime Minister has put Rs 30,000 crore in the pocket of Anil Ambani after stealing from the Air Force, and the youth. The country knows about it. The Prime Minister can run, but can`t hide from the truth. It will come out. Removing the CBI director will not make any difference. The truth will come out in the end," the Gandhi scion said after leaving Lodhi Colony police station, where he was taken after being detained for protesting outside the CBI headquarters. During the demonstration, several party workers marched towards the CBI headquarters with their president. Protestors raised slogans and placards as their party president sat atop a crowded truck amidst tight security. A supporter was seen sitting inside a cage with a placard that read 'the CBI.' Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP South) Vijay Kumar said that eight leaders and 150 workers of the Congress were detained for 20 minutes before being released. The grand old party had called for nationwide protests outside the offices of the CBI. Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee chief Raj Babbar, who was leading a protest in Lucknow, was also detained. Police also used water cannons to disperse protestors in Chandigarh. The government recently sent Alok Verma and his deputy Rakesh Asthana on leave after both levelled allegations of accepting bribes at each other. However, the CBI on Thursday informed that Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana would continue to remain the CBI Director and Special Director, respectively.

PM Modi sent CBI director on leave out of fear: Rahul Gandhi

The Supreme Court Friday sought a response from Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) and the Centre on agency Director Alok Kumar Verma's plea challenging the government's decision to divest him of his duties and send him on leave.

The apex court directed that interim CBI chief M Nageswara Rao shall not take any major policy decisions. Decisions taken by him since October 23 till date shall not be implemented, it said.

All decisions taken by Rao shall be placed before the apex court in a sealed cover.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi heard the plea. Senior advocate F S Nariman advanced arguments on behalf of the CBI chief.

Nariman referred to the CVC and Centre's orders divesting Verma of his duty. He also cited the Vineet Narain judgment to support Verma's pleas.

The bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, issued notices on the petition filed by an NGO, Common Cause, which has sought a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe against the CBI officers.

CBI's Special Director Rakesh Asthana has also been named as one of the respondents in the NGO's petition.

Verma and Asthana have made allegations of corruption against each other.

The top court today said former Supreme Court judge A K Patnaik will oversee a Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) inquiry into the allegations and counter allegations and the report has to be placed before it within two weeks.

Next date of hearing has been scheduled to November 12.

The Supreme Court Friday sought a response from Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) and the Centre on agency Director Alok Kumar Verma's plea challenging the government's decision to divest him of his duties and send him on leave.

The Supreme Court Friday sought a response from Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) and the Centre on agency Director Alok Kumar Verma's plea challenging the government's decision to divest him of his duties and send him on leave. The apex court directed that interim CBI chief M Nageswara Rao shall not take any major policy decisions. Decisions taken by him since October 23 till date shall not be implemented, it said. All decisions taken by Rao shall be placed before the apex court in a sealed cover. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi heard the plea. Senior advocate F S Nariman advanced arguments on behalf of the CBI chief. Nariman referred to the CVC and Centre's orders divesting Verma of his duty. He also cited the Vineet Narain judgment to support Verma's pleas. The bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, issued notices on the petition filed by an NGO, Common Cause, which has sought a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe against the CBI officers. CBI's Special Director Rakesh Asthana has also been named as one of the respondents in the NGO's petition. Verma and Asthana have made allegations of corruption against each other. The top court today said former Supreme Court judge A K Patnaik will oversee a Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) inquiry into the allegations and counter allegations and the report has to be placed before it within two weeks. Next date of hearing has been scheduled to November 12.

Alok Verma case: SC orders CVC probe, asks interim CBI chief not to take policy decisions

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday led a protest march to demand the reinstatement of CBI Director Alok Verma, who has been divested of his powers and sent on leave, and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Congress has termed the move against Verma "illegal and unconstitutional".&nbsp;

Top Congress leaders took part in the march that culminated in a demonstration outside the CBI headquarters. Leaders of other parties also joined the protest as a mark of solidarity.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Congress workers stage protest against the removal of CBI Chief Alok Verma in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>. <a href="https://t.co/BRk8Vvwvgv">pic.twitter.com/BRk8Vvwvgv</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1055726034224586753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav, CPI leader D Raja and TMC's Nadimul Haque joined the Congress protest that started from outside Dayal Singh College on Lodhi Road.&nbsp;

Gandhi got on to a truck in front of the police barricades put up outside the CBI headquarters to prevent the protesters from reaching the building.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Congress President Rahul Gandhi and Ashok Gehlot lead the protest march to CBI HQ against the removal of CBI Chief Alok Verma. <a href="https://t.co/7FNkhoWQCb">pic.twitter.com/7FNkhoWQCb</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1055716852268257281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday led a protest march to demand the reinstatement of CBI Director Alok Verma, who has been divested of his powers and sent on leave, and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday led a protest march to demand the reinstatement of CBI Director Alok Verma, who has been divested of his powers and sent on leave, and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Congress has termed the move against Verma "illegal and unconstitutional". Top Congress leaders took part in the march that culminated in a demonstration outside the CBI headquarters. Leaders of other parties also joined the protest as a mark of solidarity. #WATCH: Congress workers stage protest against the removal of CBI Chief Alok Verma in #Delhi. pic.twitter.com/BRk8Vvwvgv — ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2018 × Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav, CPI leader D Raja and TMC's Nadimul Haque joined the Congress protest that started from outside Dayal Singh College on Lodhi Road. Gandhi got on to a truck in front of the police barricades put up outside the CBI headquarters to prevent the protesters from reaching the building. #WATCH Congress President Rahul Gandhi and Ashok Gehlot lead the protest march to CBI HQ against the removal of CBI Chief Alok Verma. pic.twitter.com/7FNkhoWQCb — ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2018 ×

Watch: Rahul leads protest march to CBI headquarters

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Thursday said that his party will stage protests against what he described as ''PM’s disgraceful attempt to prevent an investigation into the Rafale scam, by removing the CBI Chief. &nbsp;

According to Rahul's tweet, the party would stage protests in front of CBI offices across the country on Friday.&nbsp;

''Tomorrow, outside CBI offices nationwide, the Congress party will protest the PM’s disgraceful attempt to prevent an investigation into the Rafale scam, by removing the CBI Chief. &nbsp;I will lead the protests outside CBI HQ in Delhi, at 11 AM,'' the Congress president said in the tweet.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) &nbsp;director Alok Verma and his deputy Rakesh Asthana were divested of all duties late on Tuesday following a feud between the two.

Joint director M Nageswar Rao, a 1986-batch Orissa-cadre officer, who was asked to take over as acting chief immediately, in his first order, removed the entire team probing the bribery case against Asthana, including Ajay Bassi, the investigation officer (IO) and deputy inspector general Manish Sinha. (Follow live updates here)

Meanwhile, Verma has moved the Supreme Court challenging his removal and the appointment of a new director. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi will hear plea on Friday.

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Tomorrow, outside CBI offices nationwide, the Congress party will protest the PM’s disgraceful attempt to prevent an investigation into the Rafale scam, by removing the CBI Chief. 
 
I will lead the protests outside CBI HQ in Delhi, at 11 AM. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CBIRafaleGate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CBIRafaleGate</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1055485702283161601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Thursday said that his party will stage protests against what he described as ''PM’s disgraceful attempt to prevent an investigation into the Rafale scam, by removing the CBI Chief.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Thursday said that his party will stage protests against what he described as ''PM’s disgraceful attempt to prevent an investigation into the Rafale scam, by removing the CBI Chief. According to Rahul's tweet, the party would stage protests in front of CBI offices across the country on Friday. ''Tomorrow, outside CBI offices nationwide, the Congress party will protest the PM’s disgraceful attempt to prevent an investigation into the Rafale scam, by removing the CBI Chief. I will lead the protests outside CBI HQ in Delhi, at 11 AM,'' the Congress president said in the tweet. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) director Alok Verma and his deputy Rakesh Asthana were divested of all duties late on Tuesday following a feud between the two. Joint director M Nageswar Rao, a 1986-batch Orissa-cadre officer, who was asked to take over as acting chief immediately, in his first order, removed the entire team probing the bribery case against Asthana, including Ajay Bassi, the investigation officer (IO) and deputy inspector general Manish Sinha. (Follow live updates here) Meanwhile, Verma has moved the Supreme Court challenging his removal and the appointment of a new director. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi will hear plea on Friday. Tomorrow, outside CBI offices nationwide, the Congress party will protest the PM’s disgraceful attempt to prevent an investigation into the Rafale scam, by removing the CBI Chief. I will lead the protests outside CBI HQ in Delhi, at 11 AM. #CBIRafaleGate — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) October 25, 2018 ×

Congress to hold protest outside CBI offices against removal of Alok Verma

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Thursday said forcing CBI director Alok Verma to go on indefinite leave was "illegal" and alleged that it was done as the government panicked over the possibility of him investigating the Rafale jet deal.

Addressing a press conference here, he claimed that Verma's removal was an "insult" to the Constitution, the chief justice of India and the leader of the opposition.&nbsp;

The move was "illegal", the Congress chief said.&nbsp;

The interim charge of the agency has been given a person who has cases against him so that the prime minister can control him, Gandhi alleged, referring to joint director Nageswara Rao.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Wednesday said Verma and Special Director Rakesh Asthana were asked to go on leave as per the recommendation of the Central Vigilance Commission and it was "absolutely essential" to maintain the institutional integrity of CBI.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Thursday said forcing CBI director Alok Verma to go on indefinite leave was "illegal" and alleged that it was done as the government panicked over the possibility of him investigating the Rafale jet deal.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Thursday said forcing CBI director Alok Verma to go on indefinite leave was "illegal" and alleged that it was done as the government panicked over the possibility of him investigating the Rafale jet deal. Addressing a press conference here, he claimed that Verma's removal was an "insult" to the Constitution, the chief justice of India and the leader of the opposition. The move was "illegal", the Congress chief said. The interim charge of the agency has been given a person who has cases against him so that the prime minister can control him, Gandhi alleged, referring to joint director Nageswara Rao. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Wednesday said Verma and Special Director Rakesh Asthana were asked to go on leave as per the recommendation of the Central Vigilance Commission and it was "absolutely essential" to maintain the institutional integrity of CBI.

CBI director Alok Verma's removal illegal, says Rahul Gandhi

CBI spokesperson on Thursday said that Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana would remain CBI director and special director, respectively.&nbsp;

Alok Verma will continue to remain CBI director and Rakesh Asthana as special director. M Nageshwar Rao will look after duties and functions of the CBI director in the interim period till the time CVC looks into the allegations, the CBI official spokesperson said.

The spokesperson further said that whatever they are doing is to ensure that the credibility of the agency does not suffer.&nbsp;

''We are conscious of the fact that any fall in credibility and image of the agency has the potential to impact the important cases we are fighting internationally. Whatever we are doing is to ensure that credibility of the agency does not suffer,'' spokesperson further said.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Verma and Asthana were asked to go on leave in the midst of an internal rift over bribery allegations against the latter.&nbsp;

The feud between Verma and Asthana has been marked by allegations and counter-allegations of corruption and interference in high-profile cases.

CBI joint director Nageshwar Rao will take charge of the investigation agency as new interim chief.

CBI spokesperson on Thursday said that Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana would remain CBI director and special director, respectively. Alok Verma will continue to remain CBI director and Rakesh Asthana as special director.

CBI spokesperson on Thursday said that Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana would remain CBI director and special director, respectively. Alok Verma will continue to remain CBI director and Rakesh Asthana as special director. M Nageshwar Rao will look after duties and functions of the CBI director in the interim period till the time CVC looks into the allegations, the CBI official spokesperson said. The spokesperson further said that whatever they are doing is to ensure that the credibility of the agency does not suffer. ''We are conscious of the fact that any fall in credibility and image of the agency has the potential to impact the important cases we are fighting internationally. Whatever we are doing is to ensure that credibility of the agency does not suffer,'' spokesperson further said. On Wednesday, Verma and Asthana were asked to go on leave in the midst of an internal rift over bribery allegations against the latter. The feud between Verma and Asthana has been marked by allegations and counter-allegations of corruption and interference in high-profile cases. CBI joint director Nageshwar Rao will take charge of the investigation agency as new interim chief.

Alok Verma to remain CBI director, Rakesh Asthana special director: CBI spokesperson

Four officials of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), suspected to be snooping on ousted <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-top-boss-and-deputy-removed-nageswar-rao-takes-interim-charge-173104">CBI chief Alok Verma,</a> who was divested of his powers and sent on leave by the government, were arrested outside his official residence in New Delhi on Thursday.&nbsp;

The IB officials have submitted their identity proofs and CGHS and Aadhaar cards.

The four men were allegedly suspiciously lurking around the building and spying on Verma.&nbsp;

The men were caught by his security personnel and handed over to Delhi Police. A case has also been filed.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Earlier visuals of two of the four people (who were seen outside the residence of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AlokVerma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AlokVerma</a>) being taken for questioning. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CBI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CBI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/2KnqNfrnH0">pic.twitter.com/2KnqNfrnH0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1055321343061823488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On Tuesday night, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) top boss Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana, the special director who was the No 2 in the agency were asked to go on leave in the midst of an internal rift over bribery allegations against the latter. CBI joint director Nageshwar Rao took over the charge of the investigation agency as new interim chief.

Meanwhile, the Opposition alleged that CBI director Alok Verma was sent on a forced leave to cover up the allegations of the alleged Rafale scam.&nbsp;

Four officials of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), suspected to be snooping on ousted CBI chief Alok Verma, who was divested of his powers and sent on leave by the government, were arrested outside his official residence in New Delhi on Thursday.

Four officials of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), suspected to be snooping on ousted CBI chief Alok Verma, who was divested of his powers and sent on leave by the government, were arrested outside his official residence in New Delhi on Thursday. The IB officials have submitted their identity proofs and CGHS and Aadhaar cards. The four men were allegedly suspiciously lurking around the building and spying on Verma. The men were caught by his security personnel and handed over to Delhi Police. A case has also been filed. #WATCH: Earlier visuals of two of the four people (who were seen outside the residence of #AlokVerma) being taken for questioning. #CBI #Delhi pic.twitter.com/2KnqNfrnH0 — ANI (@ANI) October 25, 2018 × On Tuesday night, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) top boss Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana, the special director who was the No 2 in the agency were asked to go on leave in the midst of an internal rift over bribery allegations against the latter. CBI joint director Nageshwar Rao took over the charge of the investigation agency as new interim chief. Meanwhile, the Opposition alleged that CBI director Alok Verma was sent on a forced leave to cover up the allegations of the alleged Rafale scam.

Crisis in CBI: Delhi Police arrest four IB officials outside ex-CBI director Alok Verma's house

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) top boss Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana, the special director who is the No 2 at CBI have been asked to go on leave in the midst of an internal rift over bribery allegations against the latter.&nbsp;

CBI joint director Nageshwar Rao will take charge of the investigation agency as new interim chief.

Nageshwar Rao, a 1986 batch Indian Police Service officer of the Orissa cadre, hails from Telangana's Warangal district.&nbsp;

“The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved that during the period of the subsistence of the aforesaid interim measure, cited in reference above, Shri M Nageshwar Rao, IPS, presently working as Joint Director, CBI shall look after duties and functions of Director CBI and shall take over the duties and functions with immediate effect,” the government notification read.
<img alt="Letter" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8cc28372-8ec9-41f8-8189-bf763874dbaf" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/CBI.jpg" />
The feud between the former CBI director Alok Verma and special director Rakesh Asthana has been marked by allegations and counter-allegations of corruption and interference in high-profile cases.

Earlier on Tuesday, Rakesh Asthana, the special director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), was relieved of all duties and power by CBI director Alok Verma.

Who is Alok Verma?

Alok Verma was the Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation in India from&nbsp;February 1, 2017, to October 23 2018.

Alok Verma is a 1979 batch IPS officer of Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre, took over as Delhi Police Commissioner from February 29 2016.&nbsp;

Verma, who belongs to Delhi, has worked in various positions in Delhi police, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Mizoram and in the Intelligence Bureau.

Before being appointed as Delhi Police Commissioner, he was Director General of Tihar Prisons.

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) top boss Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana, the special director who is the No 2 at CBI have been asked to go on leave in the midst of an internal rift over bribery allegations against the latter.

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) top boss Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana, the special director who is the No 2 at CBI have been asked to go on leave in the midst of an internal rift over bribery allegations against the latter. CBI joint director Nageshwar Rao will take charge of the investigation agency as new interim chief. Nageshwar Rao, a 1986 batch Indian Police Service officer of the Orissa cadre, hails from Telangana's Warangal district. “The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved that during the period of the subsistence of the aforesaid interim measure, cited in reference above, Shri M Nageshwar Rao, IPS, presently working as Joint Director, CBI shall look after duties and functions of Director CBI and shall take over the duties and functions with immediate effect,” the government notification read. The feud between the former CBI director Alok Verma and special director Rakesh Asthana has been marked by allegations and counter-allegations of corruption and interference in high-profile cases. Earlier on Tuesday, Rakesh Asthana, the special director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), was relieved of all duties and power by CBI director Alok Verma. Who is Alok Verma? Alok Verma was the Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation in India from February 1, 2017, to October 23 2018. Alok Verma is a 1979 batch IPS officer of Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre, took over as Delhi Police Commissioner from February 29 2016. Verma, who belongs to Delhi, has worked in various positions in Delhi police, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Mizoram and in the Intelligence Bureau. Before being appointed as Delhi Police Commissioner, he was Director General of Tihar Prisons.

Crisis in CBI: Nageswar Rao takes interim charge, director Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana asked to go on leave

Watch: WION Fineprint, 24th October, 2018

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-top-boss-and-deputy-removed-nageswar-rao-takes-interim-charge-173104">Crisis in CBI: Nageswar Rao takes interim charge, director Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana asked to go on leave</a>

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) top boss Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana, the special director who is the No 2 at CBI have been asked to go on leave in the midst of an internal rift over bribery allegations against the latter.&nbsp;CBI joint director Nageshwar Rao will take charge of the investigation agency as new interim chief.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-trump-slams-worst-cover-up-ever-173083">Trump says Saudis staged 'worst cover-up ever' on Khashoggi; </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-trump-slams-worst-cover-up-ever-173083">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-trump-slams-worst-cover-up-ever-173083"> revokes visas of some Saudis</a>

President Donald Trump said on Tuesday said Saudi authorities staged the "worst cover-up ever" in the&nbsp;killing of prominent journalist Jamal Khashoggithis month, as the United States vowed to revoke the visas of some of those believed to be responsible.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-ronaldos-juventus-beat-manchester-united-173091">Champions League: Ronaldo's Juventus beat Manchester United</a>

An impressive Juventus beat Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford on Tuesday to take command of Champions League Group H with a maximum nine points from three games and demonstrate just how far Jose Mourinho's side are from Europe's elite.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/petrol-diesel-prices-decline-for-seventh-straight-day-check-rates-in-delhi-mumbai-173086">Petrol prices decline for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/petrol-diesel-prices-decline-for-seventh-straight-day-check-rates-in-delhi-mumbai-173086">seventh</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/petrol-diesel-prices-decline-for-seventh-straight-day-check-rates-in-delhi-mumbai-173086"> straight day: Check rates in Delhi, Mumbai</a>

Fuel prices witnessed further reduction on Wednesday, providing some relief to consumers from relentless rate hikes.&nbsp;The petrol price in Delhi was revised to Rs 81.25 per litre (decrease by Rs 0.09), while that in Mumbai was Rs 86.73 per litre (decrease by Rs 0.08).

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-willa-makes-landfall-in-mexico-173093">Hurricane Willa makes landfall in Mexico</a>

Hurricane Willa made landfall in Mexico Tuesday, lashing the Pacific coast with powerful wind, heavy rain and what forecasters warned was "extremely dangerous" storm surge.

Crisis in CBI: Nageswar Rao takes interim charge, director Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana asked to go on leave Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) top boss Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana, the special director who is the No 2 at CBI have been asked to go on leave in the midst of an internal rift over bribery allegations against the latter.

Crisis in CBI: Nageswar Rao takes interim charge, director Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana asked to go on leave Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) top boss Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana, the special director who is the No 2 at CBI have been asked to go on leave in the midst of an internal rift over bribery allegations against the latter. CBI joint director Nageshwar Rao will take charge of the investigation agency as new interim chief. Trump says Saudis staged 'worst cover-up ever' on Khashoggi; US revokes visas of some Saudis President Donald Trump said on Tuesday said Saudi authorities staged the "worst cover-up ever" in the killing of prominent journalist Jamal Khashoggithis month, as the United States vowed to revoke the visas of some of those believed to be responsible. Champions League: Ronaldo's Juventus beat Manchester United An impressive Juventus beat Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford on Tuesday to take command of Champions League Group H with a maximum nine points from three games and demonstrate just how far Jose Mourinho's side are from Europe's elite. Petrol prices decline for seventh straight day: Check rates in Delhi, Mumbai Fuel prices witnessed further reduction on Wednesday, providing some relief to consumers from relentless rate hikes. The petrol price in Delhi was revised to Rs 81.25 per litre (decrease by Rs 0.09), while that in Mumbai was Rs 86.73 per litre (decrease by Rs 0.08). Hurricane Willa makes landfall in Mexico Hurricane Willa made landfall in Mexico Tuesday, lashing the Pacific coast with powerful wind, heavy rain and what forecasters warned was "extremely dangerous" storm surge.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Watch: WION Your Story, 24th October, 2018

WION Dispatch: CBI director Alok Verma moves to SC against compulsory leaves

The government on Wednesday alleged that CBI Director Alok Verma did not back up the allegations of corruption against his former second-in-command Rakesh Asthana.&nbsp;

The allegations of corruption were levelled before Asthana was made Special Director of the CBI. Verma had at the time written to the Central Vigilance Commission, saying the bureau was investigating Asthana.&nbsp;

Asthana later wrote to the Cabinet Secretary and the CVC alleging that Verma was guilty of corruption.&nbsp;

A little later the CBI filed an FIR against Asthana.&nbsp;

The government stepped in on Wednesday, sending both Verma and Asthana on leave. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-action-intended-to-restore-credibility-of-cbi-arun-jaitley-on-sending-cbi-directors-on-leave-173155">it was necessary to do so</a> to maintain the credibility of the country's premier investigative agency.&nbsp;

In its statement on Wednesday, the government said the CVC, on receipt of a complaint on August 24, 2018 containing various allegations against senior functionaries of the CBI, had served three notices under Section 11 of the CVC Act, 2003 on September 11 on the CBI director to produce files and documents before the commission on September 14.&nbsp;

Various opportunities were given to produce such records and after several adjournments, the CBI assured the commission on September 24 of furnishing them within three weeks.&nbsp;

"Despite repeated assurances and reminders, the Director, CBI, failed to furnish the records/files before the commission. The CVC has observed that Director, CBI, has not been cooperating in making available records/files sought by the commission relating to serious allegations," the statement read.

The CVC has also observed that the CBI director has been non-cooperative, non-compliant with the requirements/directions and has created willful obstructions in the functioning of the commission which is a constitutional body.&nbsp;

Asthana is thought of as being close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah.&nbsp;

Asthana handled the Godhra train-burning case which led to the Gujarat riots of 2002, and the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case in which Shah was at one time accused.

&nbsp;(With inputs from PTI)

The government on Wednesday alleged that CBI Director Alok Verma did not back up the allegations of corruption against his former second-in-command Rakesh Asthana.

The government on Wednesday alleged that CBI Director Alok Verma did not back up the allegations of corruption against his former second-in-command Rakesh Asthana. The allegations of corruption were levelled before Asthana was made Special Director of the CBI. Verma had at the time written to the Central Vigilance Commission, saying the bureau was investigating Asthana. Asthana later wrote to the Cabinet Secretary and the CVC alleging that Verma was guilty of corruption. A little later the CBI filed an FIR against Asthana. The government stepped in on Wednesday, sending both Verma and Asthana on leave. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said it was necessary to do so to maintain the credibility of the country's premier investigative agency. In its statement on Wednesday, the government said the CVC, on receipt of a complaint on August 24, 2018 containing various allegations against senior functionaries of the CBI, had served three notices under Section 11 of the CVC Act, 2003 on September 11 on the CBI director to produce files and documents before the commission on September 14. Various opportunities were given to produce such records and after several adjournments, the CBI assured the commission on September 24 of furnishing them within three weeks. "Despite repeated assurances and reminders, the Director, CBI, failed to furnish the records/files before the commission. The CVC has observed that Director, CBI, has not been cooperating in making available records/files sought by the commission relating to serious allegations," the statement read. The CVC has also observed that the CBI director has been non-cooperative, non-compliant with the requirements/directions and has created willful obstructions in the functioning of the commission which is a constitutional body. Asthana is thought of as being close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah. Asthana handled the Godhra train-burning case which led to the Gujarat riots of 2002, and the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case in which Shah was at one time accused. (With inputs from PTI)

Alok Verma did not back up allegations against Rakesh Asthana, says government

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-top-boss-and-deputy-removed-nageswar-rao-takes-interim-charge-173104">removing CBI Director Alok Verma</a> in a bid to stop him from investigating the Rafale "scam".

He also alleged that the prime minister "broke the law" and "bypassed" the Chief Justice of India and the Leader of Opposition, who were part of the panel that selected the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chief.

There was no immediate reaction from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on the allegations.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has, however, dismissed as "rubbish" the allegations that Verma was removed because he wanted to look into the Rafale fighter jet deal.&nbsp;

He said the government's decision to remove Verma and CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana was based on the Central Vigilance Commission's (CVC) recommendations.

Gandhi also alleged that Verma was forcibly sent on leave as he was collecting documents relating to the Rafale "scam".

Verma and Asthana have been "divested of all powers" amid an ongoing spat between them.

"PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI and LOP.

"Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It," Gandhi said in a tweet.

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PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. 
 
Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI &amp; LOP. 
 
Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1055060503612002304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, he tweeted, "CBI Chief Alok Verma was collecting documents relating to the Rafale scam. He was forcibly sent on leave."

"The Prime Minister's message is very clear that whoever comes near Rafale (issue) will be removed, wiped out," the Congress chief charged.

The country and the Constitution were in danger, he claimed.

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CBI चीफ आलोक वर्मा राफेल घोटाले के कागजात इकट्ठा कर रहे थे। उन्हें जबरदस्ती छुट्टी पर भेज दिया गया। 
 
प्रधानमंत्री का मैसेज एकदम साफ है जो भी राफेल के इर्द गिर्द आएगा- हटा दिया जाएगा, मिटा दिया जाएगा। 
 
देश और संविधान खतरे में हैं।
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1055009856413937665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Addressing a poll rally at Jhalawar in Rajasthan, Gandhi targeted the prime minister on the CBI row, alleging that Verma was removed because the agency was raising questions over the Rafale fighter jet deal.

"The CBI director was removed last night because the agency was raising questions over Rafale," Gandhi alleged.

The Congress has been alleging massive irregularities in the Rafale deal. 
The government has vehemently rejected all allegations.&nbsp;

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of removing CBI Director Alok Verma in a bid to stop him from investigating the Rafale "scam".

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of removing CBI Director Alok Verma in a bid to stop him from investigating the Rafale "scam". He also alleged that the prime minister "broke the law" and "bypassed" the Chief Justice of India and the Leader of Opposition, who were part of the panel that selected the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chief. There was no immediate reaction from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on the allegations. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has, however, dismissed as "rubbish" the allegations that Verma was removed because he wanted to look into the Rafale fighter jet deal. He said the government's decision to remove Verma and CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana was based on the Central Vigilance Commission's (CVC) recommendations. Gandhi also alleged that Verma was forcibly sent on leave as he was collecting documents relating to the Rafale "scam". Verma and Asthana have been "divested of all powers" amid an ongoing spat between them. "PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI and LOP. "Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It," Gandhi said in a tweet. PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI & LOP. Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) October 24, 2018 × Earlier, he tweeted, "CBI Chief Alok Verma was collecting documents relating to the Rafale scam. He was forcibly sent on leave." "The Prime Minister's message is very clear that whoever comes near Rafale (issue) will be removed, wiped out," the Congress chief charged. The country and the Constitution were in danger, he claimed. CBI चीफ आलोक वर्मा राफेल घोटाले के कागजात इकट्ठा कर रहे थे। उन्हें जबरदस्ती छुट्टी पर भेज दिया गया। प्रधानमंत्री का मैसेज एकदम साफ है जो भी राफेल के इर्द गिर्द आएगा- हटा दिया जाएगा, मिटा दिया जाएगा। देश और संविधान खतरे में हैं। — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) October 24, 2018 × Addressing a poll rally at Jhalawar in Rajasthan, Gandhi targeted the prime minister on the CBI row, alleging that Verma was removed because the agency was raising questions over the Rafale fighter jet deal. "The CBI director was removed last night because the agency was raising questions over Rafale," Gandhi alleged. The Congress has been alleging massive irregularities in the Rafale deal. The government has vehemently rejected all allegations.

Alok Verma was collecting documents related to Rafale 'scam': Rahul Gandhi 

The Delhi High court on Tuesday refused to stay the FIR filed by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-arrests-its-own-deputy-sp-in-bribery-case-involving-its-special-director-172826">the CBI</a> against its own second-in-command Rakesh Asthana.&nbsp;

The court however added that no action can be taken against Asthana till Monday when CBI Director Alok Verma will have to respond to the allegations levelled by Asthana against Verma.&nbsp;

Both Verma and Asthana have accused each other of corruption.&nbsp;

Verma had accused Asthana — who is a Gujarat cadre officer — of corruption before he was appointed to the CBI. Verma pointed out the alleged corruption to the Central Vigilance Commission.&nbsp;

Asthana in turn wrote to the Central Vigilance Commission and the&nbsp;Cabinet Secretary <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-terms-allegations-against-its-director-alok-verma-as-false-and-malicious-172714">accusing Verma of corruption</a>.&nbsp;

A little later, the CBI filed the FIR against Asthana. Asthana is accused of demanding a bribe of Rs 5 crore to let businessman Satish Sana off the hook in the Moin Qureshi case.&nbsp;

"This is a case of illegal registration of FIR against CBI Spl Director (Asthana) based on a statement of an accused," Asthana's lawyer told the Delhi High Court on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"This matter is of great urgency. The person whose arrest was recommended by Asthana has now been made a complainant and based on his complaint, this FIR has been filed. Any investigation without proper permission will be illegal," Asthana's lawyer added.&nbsp;

The CBI counsel replied: "Charges very serious against the accused including that of bribery. Charges under prevention of corruption act along with criminal conspiracy. Charges of extortion and forgery will be added."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Delhi High court on Tuesday refused to stay the FIR filed by the CBI against its own second-in-command Rakesh Asthana. The court however added that no action can be taken against Asthana till Monday when CBI Director Alok Verma will have to respond to the allegations levelled by Asthana against Verma.

The Delhi High court on Tuesday refused to stay the FIR filed by the CBI against its own second-in-command Rakesh Asthana. The court however added that no action can be taken against Asthana till Monday when CBI Director Alok Verma will have to respond to the allegations levelled by Asthana against Verma. Both Verma and Asthana have accused each other of corruption. Verma had accused Asthana — who is a Gujarat cadre officer — of corruption before he was appointed to the CBI. Verma pointed out the alleged corruption to the Central Vigilance Commission. Asthana in turn wrote to the Central Vigilance Commission and the Cabinet Secretary accusing Verma of corruption. A little later, the CBI filed the FIR against Asthana. Asthana is accused of demanding a bribe of Rs 5 crore to let businessman Satish Sana off the hook in the Moin Qureshi case. "This is a case of illegal registration of FIR against CBI Spl Director (Asthana) based on a statement of an accused," Asthana's lawyer told the Delhi High Court on Tuesday. "This matter is of great urgency. The person whose arrest was recommended by Asthana has now been made a complainant and based on his complaint, this FIR has been filed. Any investigation without proper permission will be illegal," Asthana's lawyer added. The CBI counsel replied: "Charges very serious against the accused including that of bribery. Charges under prevention of corruption act along with criminal conspiracy. Charges of extortion and forgery will be added."

Delhi High Court refuses to stay FIR filed by CBI against CBI's 2nd-in-command

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar Tuesday said if the central government was "effective", there would not have been bribery charges at the highest level in the CBI, and asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to act over the matter.

He also attacked the BJP-led Centre over the Rafale jet deal and demanded a probe into it by a joint parliamentary committee.

Pawar was replying to queries during an interaction at the "Mumbai Manthan" conclave organised by television news channel Aaj Tak.

The feud between Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Director Alok Verma and his deputy Rakesh Asthana turned murkier with the arrest of a deputy superintendent of police in the Special Investigation Team headed by Asthana over bribery charges.

Asked about the Modi government's performance, Pawar said people's expectations from the present dispensation were not fulfilled.

"What was promised in 2014 is not seen on the ground after four years. (Former prime minister) Manmohan Singh tried his best to give a good government, intentions were best. That is not the situation today.

"If the present government was effective, there would not have been bribery charges at the highest level in the CBI. Still the prime minister is silent. He should act," the former Union minister said.

Pawar said Modi was a strong leader for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), but not the country.

"His ministerial team does not have the capacity to deliver. The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) is the most powerful. All decisions are taken there and the files are sent to the ministers to sign. The present government does only 'man ki baat' and does not listen to 'jan ki baat' (people's voice)," he added.

Firing a fresh salvo over the Rafale fighter jet deal, Pawar said the Centre should clarify why the price of one aircraft increased from Rs 570 crore to Rs 1,600 crore.

"There is room for suspicion. So there should be a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe. If the BJP stalled Parliament for three weeks for a JPC probe in (the) Bofors (case), why should the BJP, now in power, oppose a JPC," he asked.

Asked if he felt there was corruption in the Rafale deal as alleged by Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Pawar said he had no information about it.

"I only know the aircraft is good. Rahul Gandhi may have more information than me about corruption," he said.

Led by the Congress, the opposition parties have been attacking the Modi government, alleging that it is procuring 36 Rafale jets from France at an exorbitantly high cost.

The government has denied the allegations of irregularities in the Rafale deal and industrialist Anil Ambani has also dismissed the Congress's charge that he got undue benefits under it.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar Tuesday said if the central government was "effective", there would not have been bribery charges at the highest level in the CBI, and asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to act over the matter.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar Tuesday said if the central government was "effective", there would not have been bribery charges at the highest level in the CBI, and asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to act over the matter. He also attacked the BJP-led Centre over the Rafale jet deal and demanded a probe into it by a joint parliamentary committee. Pawar was replying to queries during an interaction at the "Mumbai Manthan" conclave organised by television news channel Aaj Tak. The feud between Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Director Alok Verma and his deputy Rakesh Asthana turned murkier with the arrest of a deputy superintendent of police in the Special Investigation Team headed by Asthana over bribery charges. Asked about the Modi government's performance, Pawar said people's expectations from the present dispensation were not fulfilled. "What was promised in 2014 is not seen on the ground after four years. (Former prime minister) Manmohan Singh tried his best to give a good government, intentions were best. That is not the situation today. "If the present government was effective, there would not have been bribery charges at the highest level in the CBI. Still the prime minister is silent. He should act," the former Union minister said. Pawar said Modi was a strong leader for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), but not the country. "His ministerial team does not have the capacity to deliver. The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) is the most powerful. All decisions are taken there and the files are sent to the ministers to sign. The present government does only 'man ki baat' and does not listen to 'jan ki baat' (people's voice)," he added. Firing a fresh salvo over the Rafale fighter jet deal, Pawar said the Centre should clarify why the price of one aircraft increased from Rs 570 crore to Rs 1,600 crore. "There is room for suspicion. So there should be a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe. If the BJP stalled Parliament for three weeks for a JPC probe in (the) Bofors (case), why should the BJP, now in power, oppose a JPC," he asked. Asked if he felt there was corruption in the Rafale deal as alleged by Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Pawar said he had no information about it. "I only know the aircraft is good. Rahul Gandhi may have more information than me about corruption," he said. Led by the Congress, the opposition parties have been attacking the Modi government, alleging that it is procuring 36 Rafale jets from France at an exorbitantly high cost. The government has denied the allegations of irregularities in the Rafale deal and industrialist Anil Ambani has also dismissed the Congress's charge that he got undue benefits under it.

Sharad Pawar hits out at PM Modi over CBI row

The CBI Sunday tried to defend its Director Alok Verma following allegations of corruption levelled against him by his deputy Rakesh Asthana, booked by the agency on bribery charges last week, saying they are “false and malicious”.

In his letters to the Cabinet Secretary and Central Vigilance Commission, Asthana had written about 10 cases of alleged corruption and irregularities against the CBI Director Alok Verma, levelling serious corruption charges in some of them.

One of the cases pertained to Sathish Sana, a businessman facing probe in a corruption case involving meat exporter Moin Qureshi in which Asthana had alleged on August 24 that Sana paid Rs two crore to Verma to get relief in the case.

Asthana had also alleged that Verma delayed his team’s request to arrest Sana in the case.

The complaint was referred to Central Vigilance Commission by the Government which is looking into it.

Gujarat-cadre officer Asthana, currently number two in the CBI, has also cited instances of alleged irregularities and violation of rules and regulations against Verma.

In an unprecedented operation, the CBI registered an FIR against Asthana and his Deputy Superintendent of Police Devender Kumar, and two alleged middlemen Somesh Prasad and Manoj Prasad on the basis of a statement from Sana that bribe was paid to the middlemen to get relief in repeated questioning by the Asthana’s Special Investigation Unit.

Asthana had alleged that he had moved a file for the arrest of Sana on September 20, 2018, which was held by the CBI Director Alok Verma and was later referred to Director of Prosecution who demanded the evidence file.

He had alleged that it was his team which opened a LookOut Circular (LOC) against Sana who was stopped at immigration and prevented from fleeing the country.

In a late night statement, CBI spokesperson said allegations that Director CBI was not aware of LOC issued against Satish Sana is incorrect.

“DCBI had seen and ratified the proposal to issue LOC on May 21, 2018,” he said.

The spokesperson said contention that Director CBI made an attempt to stop Sana’s arrest is false and malicious.

“The allegation has been made to deflect the charge of receipt of bribe money by CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana and the other public servant named in the FIR,” he said.

The agency FIR is based on allegations levelled by Sana, who was facing CBI charges, before a magistrate under section 164 of the CrPC.

The statement attached in the FIR does not make any mention of any direct meeting or call between Asthana and Sana or any direct and confirmed interaction between the two.

“Sana was called to the CBI for examination/inquiry on multiple occasions in October/November 2017. During October/November 2017, there were four instances in which notices were given to Sana. In order to get relief from frequent notices, Shri Sana approached one Manoj Prasad in Dubai in the month of December 2017,” the spokesperson said.

He claimed Rs 2.95 crores were paid to the public servants through Manoj Prasad and Somesh Prasad and Sana was able to obtain relief in the on-going investigation in the Moin Qureshi case.

Subsequently, there were no notices issued to him till mid of February 2018, the spokesman said.

He said on February 19, 2018, again notice was issued to Sana who flew to Dubai and met Prasad.

“Subsequently, there were no notices issued till the end of May/early June 2018,” he said.

The spokesperson claimed that a LOC was issued to prevent Sana’s escape from the country on May 16 (by the team of Asthana which was probing the matter).

On the basis of LOC, Sana was stopped from going abroad by immigration office at Hyderabad on September 24 on the basis of the Look Out Circular.

“Subsequently, he was called by investigation officer on October 1, 2018, and again on October 3. Faced with continued harassment, Sana got his statement recorded with the Magistrate Court regarding the entire transaction,” he said.

Sana also contacted Prasad to get relief from appearance due on October 9, which was promised by Manoj. He had promised to obtain relief till 25th as requested by Sana, the spokesman said.

“This relief was obtained with the promise of payment of Rs 2 crore, of which, Rs 25 lakh was paid on October 10, 2018,” he said.

Manoj was caught on 16th October when he came to India to get the remaining Rs 1.75 crore, the spokesperson alleged.

“On 20th, Sathish Sana once again recorded his statement with the concerned court corroborating the facts he mentioned in the complaint,” he said.

The CBI Sunday tried to defend its Director Alok Verma following allegations of corruption levelled against him by his deputy Rakesh Asthana, booked by the agency on bribery charges last week, saying they are “false and malicious”.

The CBI Sunday tried to defend its Director Alok Verma following allegations of corruption levelled against him by his deputy Rakesh Asthana, booked by the agency on bribery charges last week, saying they are “false and malicious”. In his letters to the Cabinet Secretary and Central Vigilance Commission, Asthana had written about 10 cases of alleged corruption and irregularities against the CBI Director Alok Verma, levelling serious corruption charges in some of them. One of the cases pertained to Sathish Sana, a businessman facing probe in a corruption case involving meat exporter Moin Qureshi in which Asthana had alleged on August 24 that Sana paid Rs two crore to Verma to get relief in the case. Asthana had also alleged that Verma delayed his team’s request to arrest Sana in the case. The complaint was referred to Central Vigilance Commission by the Government which is looking into it. Gujarat-cadre officer Asthana, currently number two in the CBI, has also cited instances of alleged irregularities and violation of rules and regulations against Verma. In an unprecedented operation, the CBI registered an FIR against Asthana and his Deputy Superintendent of Police Devender Kumar, and two alleged middlemen Somesh Prasad and Manoj Prasad on the basis of a statement from Sana that bribe was paid to the middlemen to get relief in repeated questioning by the Asthana’s Special Investigation Unit. Asthana had alleged that he had moved a file for the arrest of Sana on September 20, 2018, which was held by the CBI Director Alok Verma and was later referred to Director of Prosecution who demanded the evidence file. He had alleged that it was his team which opened a LookOut Circular (LOC) against Sana who was stopped at immigration and prevented from fleeing the country. In a late night statement, CBI spokesperson said allegations that Director CBI was not aware of LOC issued against Satish Sana is incorrect. “DCBI had seen and ratified the proposal to issue LOC on May 21, 2018,” he said. The spokesperson said contention that Director CBI made an attempt to stop Sana’s arrest is false and malicious. “The allegation has been made to deflect the charge of receipt of bribe money by CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana and the other public servant named in the FIR,” he said. The agency FIR is based on allegations levelled by Sana, who was facing CBI charges, before a magistrate under section 164 of the CrPC. The statement attached in the FIR does not make any mention of any direct meeting or call between Asthana and Sana or any direct and confirmed interaction between the two. “Sana was called to the CBI for examination/inquiry on multiple occasions in October/November 2017. During October/November 2017, there were four instances in which notices were given to Sana. In order to get relief from frequent notices, Shri Sana approached one Manoj Prasad in Dubai in the month of December 2017,” the spokesperson said. He claimed Rs 2.95 crores were paid to the public servants through Manoj Prasad and Somesh Prasad and Sana was able to obtain relief in the on-going investigation in the Moin Qureshi case. Subsequently, there were no notices issued to him till mid of February 2018, the spokesman said. He said on February 19, 2018, again notice was issued to Sana who flew to Dubai and met Prasad. “Subsequently, there were no notices issued till the end of May/early June 2018,” he said. The spokesperson claimed that a LOC was issued to prevent Sana’s escape from the country on May 16 (by the team of Asthana which was probing the matter). On the basis of LOC, Sana was stopped from going abroad by immigration office at Hyderabad on September 24 on the basis of the Look Out Circular. “Subsequently, he was called by investigation officer on October 1, 2018, and again on October 3. Faced with continued harassment, Sana got his statement recorded with the Magistrate Court regarding the entire transaction,” he said. Sana also contacted Prasad to get relief from appearance due on October 9, which was promised by Manoj. He had promised to obtain relief till 25th as requested by Sana, the spokesman said. “This relief was obtained with the promise of payment of Rs 2 crore, of which, Rs 25 lakh was paid on October 10, 2018,” he said. Manoj was caught on 16th October when he came to India to get the remaining Rs 1.75 crore, the spokesperson alleged. “On 20th, Sathish Sana once again recorded his statement with the concerned court corroborating the facts he mentioned in the complaint,” he said.

CBI terms allegations against its director Alok Verma as ‘false and malicious’

CBI officials on Tuesday told a parliamentary panel looking into the Bofors deal that they have enough evidence to file a special leave petition (SLP) before the Supreme Court in a case pertaining to the defence deal.

CBI&#39;s submission came even as Attorney General K K Venugopal had advised the government that the investigating agency should not file a SLP in a case related to the Bofors gun payoff as it is likely to be dismissed.

The bench headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra is scheduled to hear a case on February 2, on the plea filed by BJP leader Ajay Aggarwal.

Aggarwal had filed the plea in his personal capacity, against a Delhi High Court order of 2005 quashing charges against the Hinduja brothers in the Bofors payoff case.

CBI Director Alok Verma, additional director Rakesh Asthana along with DoPT Secretary Ajay Mittal today deposed before the PAC&#39;s sub-committee on defence looking into the non-compliance of certain aspects of a CAG report on the Bofors Howitzer gun deal.

CBI officials said they have enough evidence to file the SLP while Secretary DoPT ensured the panel that the investigating agency is free to take its decision, a member in the panel said.

During the discussions, BJP MP and a member of the panel Nishikant Dubey suggested that the CBI can file SLP on the basis of income tax tribunal order in the case filed by the son of the late Win Chadha, who was accused in the case, a source who was present in the meeting said.

Dubey also suggested that the details available in the report of the Joint Parliamentary Committee enquiring into Bofors deal can also be used for filing SLP.

The panel, headed by BJD MP Bhartruhari Mahtab, is likely to give its report on the Bofors gun deal during this budget session.&nbsp;

CBI's submission came even as Attorney General K K Venugopal had advised the government that the investigating agency should not file a SLP in a case related to the Bofors gun payoff as it is likely to be dismissed

CBI officials on Tuesday told a parliamentary panel looking into the Bofors deal that they have enough evidence to file a special leave petition (SLP) before the Supreme Court in a case pertaining to the defence deal. CBI's submission came even as Attorney General K K Venugopal had advised the government that the investigating agency should not file a SLP in a case related to the Bofors gun payoff as it is likely to be dismissed. The bench headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra is scheduled to hear a case on February 2, on the plea filed by BJP leader Ajay Aggarwal. Aggarwal had filed the plea in his personal capacity, against a Delhi High Court order of 2005 quashing charges against the Hinduja brothers in the Bofors payoff case. CBI Director Alok Verma, additional director Rakesh Asthana along with DoPT Secretary Ajay Mittal today deposed before the PAC's sub-committee on defence looking into the non-compliance of certain aspects of a CAG report on the Bofors Howitzer gun deal. CBI officials said they have enough evidence to file the SLP while Secretary DoPT ensured the panel that the investigating agency is free to take its decision, a member in the panel said. During the discussions, BJP MP and a member of the panel Nishikant Dubey suggested that the CBI can file SLP on the basis of income tax tribunal order in the case filed by the son of the late Win Chadha, who was accused in the case, a source who was present in the meeting said. Dubey also suggested that the details available in the report of the Joint Parliamentary Committee enquiring into Bofors deal can also be used for filing SLP. The panel, headed by BJD MP Bhartruhari Mahtab, is likely to give its report on the Bofors gun deal during this budget session.

Have enough evidence to file petition, says CBI on Bofors case

Delhi Police Commissioner Alok Kumar Verma was today appointed director of CBI, India&#39;s premier probe agency.

His name was cleared by a three-member selection panel headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and comprising Chief Justice of India Jagdish Singh Khehar, and Congress leader in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge as members.

The post of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) director was lying vacant for over one month following Anil Sinha&#39;s retirement on December 2.

At present, Gujarat-cadre Indian Police Service&nbsp;(IPS) officer Rakesh Asthana is the interim director of the investigating agency.

Verma, a 1979 batch IPS officer of Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre, took over as Delhi Police commissioner from February 29, 2016.&nbsp;

(PTI)

His name was cleared by a three-member selection panel headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Delhi Police Commissioner Alok Kumar Verma was today appointed director of CBI, India's premier probe agency. His name was cleared by a three-member selection panel headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and comprising Chief Justice of India Jagdish Singh Khehar, and Congress leader in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge as members. The post of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) director was lying vacant for over one month following Anil Sinha's retirement on December 2. At present, Gujarat-cadre Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Rakesh Asthana is the interim director of the investigating agency. Verma, a 1979 batch IPS officer of Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre, took over as Delhi Police commissioner from February 29, 2016. (PTI)

Delhi Police commissioner Alok Kumar Verma named new CBI chief

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