India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday arrested New Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in a case linked to alleged corruption in excise policy, which has now been scrapped.&nbsp;

Sisodia was being interrogated by the officials of CBI since morning and arrested after more than nine hours of questioning. The officials said that Sisodia arrived at the CBI headquarters around 11.12am (local time) for the second round of questioning.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indias-balakot-redemption-when-pakistani-propaganda-failed-to-pierce-through-indias-anti-terror-feat-566111">India's Balakot redemption: When Pakistani propaganda failed to pierce through India's anti-terror feat&nbsp;</a>

The politician had sought more time when he was asked to appear before the CBI last Sunday for questioning. He cited the pending work related to Delhi budget as he looks after the finance portfolio of the Arvind Kejriwal government.&nbsp;

But CBI officials said they were not satisfied with Sisodia's responses and claimed that he was not cooperating in the probe and was avoiding clarifications sought by officials on crucial points, India-based news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The Anti-Corruption Branch of CBI was questioning the top politician of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over his alleged links with Dinesh Arora and other accused mentioned in the FIR.&nbsp;

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Delhi | Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed outside the CBI headquarters after Deputy CM Manish Sisodia was arrested in connection with liquor policy case. <a href="https://t.co/BT7D17aySX">pic.twitter.com/BT7D17aySX</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1629854348913303552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Although the chargesheet in the case doesn't mention Sisodia's name, CBI mentioned details of message exchanges from multiple phones among others.&nbsp; 
 
The CBI had filed a chargesheet against seven people, including middlemen and liquor traders, in November, alleging that the Delhi government’s policy to grant licences to liquor traders favoured certain dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it. 
 
In a tweet earlier, Sisodia said he is ready for seven to eight months in jail. He wrote; "I don't care if I have to stay in jail for a few months. I am a follower of Bhagat Singh who was hanged for the country."&nbsp;

Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed outside the CBI headquarters after Deputy CM Manish Sisodia was arrested in connection with a liquor policy case to maintain security.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s tweet earlier in the day:&nbsp;

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We had asked AAP and its leaders why Manish Sisodia allowed cartelisation in the Excise policy. 
 
Besides, we asked some more pointed questions. 
 
However, we received no answer from them. They keep beating around the bush. 
 
- Dr. <a href="https://twitter.com/sambitswaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sambitswaraj</a> <a href="https://t.co/heRwvYCtqm">pic.twitter.com/heRwvYCtqm</a>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1629776381528899587?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday arrested New Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in a case linked to alleged corruption in excise policy, which has now been scrapped.

India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday arrested New Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in a case linked to alleged corruption in excise policy, which has now been scrapped. Sisodia was being interrogated by the officials of CBI since morning and arrested after more than nine hours of questioning. The officials said that Sisodia arrived at the CBI headquarters around 11.12am (local time) for the second round of questioning. ALSO READ | India's Balakot redemption: When Pakistani propaganda failed to pierce through India's anti-terror feat The politician had sought more time when he was asked to appear before the CBI last Sunday for questioning. He cited the pending work related to Delhi budget as he looks after the finance portfolio of the Arvind Kejriwal government. But CBI officials said they were not satisfied with Sisodia's responses and claimed that he was not cooperating in the probe and was avoiding clarifications sought by officials on crucial points, India-based news agency PTI reported. The Anti-Corruption Branch of CBI was questioning the top politician of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over his alleged links with Dinesh Arora and other accused mentioned in the FIR. Delhi | Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed outside the CBI headquarters after Deputy CM Manish Sisodia was arrested in connection with liquor policy case. pic.twitter.com/BT7D17aySX — ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2023 × Although the chargesheet in the case doesn't mention Sisodia's name, CBI mentioned details of message exchanges from multiple phones among others. The CBI had filed a chargesheet against seven people, including middlemen and liquor traders, in November, alleging that the Delhi government’s policy to grant licences to liquor traders favoured certain dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it. In a tweet earlier, Sisodia said he is ready for seven to eight months in jail. He wrote; "I don't care if I have to stay in jail for a few months. I am a follower of Bhagat Singh who was hanged for the country." Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed outside the CBI headquarters after Deputy CM Manish Sisodia was arrested in connection with a liquor policy case to maintain security. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s tweet earlier in the day: We had asked AAP and its leaders why Manish Sisodia allowed cartelisation in the Excise policy. Besides, we asked some more pointed questions. However, we received no answer from them. They keep beating around the bush. - Dr. @sambitswaraj pic.twitter.com/heRwvYCtqm — BJP (@BJP4India) February 26, 2023 × (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia arrested by CBI in liquor policy graft case

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday received sanction to prosecute former Bihar chief minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav in the land-for -job scam.&nbsp;Last year, the CBI had filed an FIR in the land-for-railway-job&nbsp;case and named Lalu Yadav, his wife and daughters as accused in the case along with several others. The alleged scam took place when Lalu Prasad Yadav was Railway Minister between 2004 to 2009.&nbsp;

The CBI had in July 2022 arrested Bhola Yadav, who used to be the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Lalu Prasad Yadav when he was railway minister, in the alleged land-for-job case.&nbsp;

The FIR reads that during the period 2004 to 2009. various persons were appointed as substitutes on group D post in different zones of the Railway in exchange for land, by the unknown public servants of the Indian Railway and later they were regularized.&nbsp;

It was further alleged that unknown public servants of the Indian Railway did not follow the instructions/guidelines issued by the department prevalent during the relevant period for appointment of substitutes in group D post in railways.&nbsp;

It further reads that enquiry has revealed that some individuals who were&nbsp;residents of Patna, Bihar were appointed as substitutes on group D&nbsp;posts during the period 2004-2009 in different zones of railways at Mumbai, Jabalpur, Kolkata, Jaipur, Hajipur and in lieu thereof the individuals themselves or their family members transferred their land in the name of family members of Lalu Prasad Yadav, then Minister of Railway, and a Company AK Infosystems Private Limited.&nbsp;

"Out of seven instances of land transfer, it is revealed that three sale deeds were executed in favour of Rabri Devi, wife of Lalu Yadav, one sale deed was executed in the name of Misha Bharti, daughter of Lalu Prasad Yadav, one sale deed was executed in favour of M/s AK Infosystems Private Limited, in which later Rabri Devi became major shareholder, in the year 2014 and currently she is one of the directors of the company. Two gift deeds were executed in favour of Hema Yadav, daughter of Lalu Prasad Yadav," it reads.&nbsp;

The enquiry has prima facie revealed that a total of 12 persons were appointed as substitutes in six different Zones of Railway during the period when Lalu Prasad Yadav was Minister of Railway i.e. from 2004 to 2009 in exchange for above mentioned seven instances of land transfer.&nbsp;

Interestingly, in most of the cases of land transfer, payment to the sellers was shown to be done in cash. The current value of the above said seven parcels of land including the land acquired through gift deeds as per the existing circle rate is about Rs 4.39 crore.&nbsp;

The enquiry has prima facie indicated that Lalu Prasad Yadav as Minister of Railway, as a public servant abused his official position for obtaining&nbsp;a pecuniary advantage in the name of his family members in the form of land in the matter of appointment of substitutes in group D post in different Zones of Railway.&nbsp;

CBI conducted searches at 17 locations belonging to Lalu Yadav and his family members in Delhi and Bihar in May 2022.&nbsp;

Back in August 2022, the CBI conducted raids at 25 different places reportedly in connection with the land-for-job&nbsp;scam.&nbsp;

In Bihar, the raids were conducted at the properties linked to RJD MLC Sunil Singh and three MPs Ashfaque Karim, Faiyaz Ahmed and Subodh Roy.&nbsp;

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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday received sanction to prosecute former Bihar chief minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav in the land-for -job scam.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday received sanction to prosecute former Bihar chief minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav in the land-for -job scam. Last year, the CBI had filed an FIR in the land-for-railway-job case and named Lalu Yadav, his wife and daughters as accused in the case along with several others. The alleged scam took place when Lalu Prasad Yadav was Railway Minister between 2004 to 2009. The CBI had in July 2022 arrested Bhola Yadav, who used to be the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Lalu Prasad Yadav when he was railway minister, in the alleged land-for-job case. The FIR reads that during the period 2004 to 2009. various persons were appointed as substitutes on group D post in different zones of the Railway in exchange for land, by the unknown public servants of the Indian Railway and later they were regularized. It was further alleged that unknown public servants of the Indian Railway did not follow the instructions/guidelines issued by the department prevalent during the relevant period for appointment of substitutes in group D post in railways. It further reads that enquiry has revealed that some individuals who were residents of Patna, Bihar were appointed as substitutes on group D posts during the period 2004-2009 in different zones of railways at Mumbai, Jabalpur, Kolkata, Jaipur, Hajipur and in lieu thereof the individuals themselves or their family members transferred their land in the name of family members of Lalu Prasad Yadav, then Minister of Railway, and a Company AK Infosystems Private Limited. "Out of seven instances of land transfer, it is revealed that three sale deeds were executed in favour of Rabri Devi, wife of Lalu Yadav, one sale deed was executed in the name of Misha Bharti, daughter of Lalu Prasad Yadav, one sale deed was executed in favour of M/s AK Infosystems Private Limited, in which later Rabri Devi became major shareholder, in the year 2014 and currently she is one of the directors of the company. Two gift deeds were executed in favour of Hema Yadav, daughter of Lalu Prasad Yadav," it reads. The enquiry has prima facie revealed that a total of 12 persons were appointed as substitutes in six different Zones of Railway during the period when Lalu Prasad Yadav was Minister of Railway i.e. from 2004 to 2009 in exchange for above mentioned seven instances of land transfer. Interestingly, in most of the cases of land transfer, payment to the sellers was shown to be done in cash. The current value of the above said seven parcels of land including the land acquired through gift deeds as per the existing circle rate is about Rs 4.39 crore. The enquiry has prima facie indicated that Lalu Prasad Yadav as Minister of Railway, as a public servant abused his official position for obtaining a pecuniary advantage in the name of his family members in the form of land in the matter of appointment of substitutes in group D post in different Zones of Railway. CBI conducted searches at 17 locations belonging to Lalu Yadav and his family members in Delhi and Bihar in May 2022. Back in August 2022, the CBI conducted raids at 25 different places reportedly in connection with the land-for-job scam. In Bihar, the raids were conducted at the properties linked to RJD MLC Sunil Singh and three MPs Ashfaque Karim, Faiyaz Ahmed and Subodh Roy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: CBI gets nod to prosecute RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav in land-for-job scam

Videocon Group founder Venugopal Dhoot was arrested by CBI officials on Monday in the ICICI Bank loan fraud case, stated the officials.&nbsp;

In the early morning hours of Monday, a brief questioning session was held with the 71-year-old Dhoot after which he was arrested in Mumbai.&nbsp;

Dhoot has been arrested hours after ICICI Bank's former CEO and MD Chanda Kochhar, along with her husband Deepak Kochhar were produced for a remand hearing in a Special Court.

The officials said that a charge sheet will be soon filed by the CBI against the Kochhars and Dhoot, along with other suspects. The three-day remand of Chanda and her husband, who was arrested on December 23, will get over on Monday.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/ex-icici-bank-ceo-chanda-kochhar-husband-arrested-by-cbi-in-videocon-loan-fraud-case-546165">Ex-ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar, husband arrested by CBI in Videocon loan fraud case</a>

Chanda and Deepak Kochhar were taken into custody by the CBI after it was alleged that the couple were not co-operating with the bureau's investigation and providing evasive replies.

During the remand hearing at the CBI Special Court on December 24, the bureau said that Chanda denied having knowledge of pecuniary transactions between Dhoot and her husband.

Senior advocate Amit Desai, who appeared in the court to defend the Kochhars, opposed the need for remand, stating that the "main borrower of the loan has not been arrested, and the present accused was not the beneficiary of any amount”.

Desai also brought to the notice of the court a letter sent by the ICICI Bank to the CBI in July 202I which stated that the bank had no wrongful loss in any of the transactions highlighted by the bureau.

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Chanda and Deepak Kochhar, along with Dhoot and companies Supreme Energy, Videocon International Electronics Ltd, Nupower Renewables (NRL) managed by Deepak Kochhar and Videocon Industries Limited, have been named as accused by the CBI in the FIR filed under IPC sections of criminal conspiracy as well as provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act in 2019, the officials stated.

The investigation bureau has alleged that credit facilities of Rs3,250 crore were sanctioned by the ICICI to the Videocon Group's companies promoted by Dhoot, which violated the bank's credit policy, RBI guidelines and the Banking Regulation Act.&nbsp;

It also alleged that an investment of Rs64 crore was made by Dhoot in Nupower Renewables through Supreme Energy Pvt Ltd (SEPL) and SEPL was transferred to Pinnacle Energy Trust, which Deepak Kochhar was managing between 2010 and 2012.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Videocon Group founder Venugopal Dhoot was arrested by CBI officials on Monday in the ICICI Bank loan fraud case, stated the officials. In the early morning hours of Monday, a brief questioning session was held with the 71-year-old Dhoot after which he was arrested in Mumbai.

Videocon Group founder Venugopal Dhoot was arrested by CBI officials on Monday in the ICICI Bank loan fraud case, stated the officials. In the early morning hours of Monday, a brief questioning session was held with the 71-year-old Dhoot after which he was arrested in Mumbai. Dhoot has been arrested hours after ICICI Bank's former CEO and MD Chanda Kochhar, along with her husband Deepak Kochhar were produced for a remand hearing in a Special Court. The officials said that a charge sheet will be soon filed by the CBI against the Kochhars and Dhoot, along with other suspects. The three-day remand of Chanda and her husband, who was arrested on December 23, will get over on Monday. ALSO READ| Ex-ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar, husband arrested by CBI in Videocon loan fraud case Chanda and Deepak Kochhar were taken into custody by the CBI after it was alleged that the couple were not co-operating with the bureau's investigation and providing evasive replies. During the remand hearing at the CBI Special Court on December 24, the bureau said that Chanda denied having knowledge of pecuniary transactions between Dhoot and her husband. Senior advocate Amit Desai, who appeared in the court to defend the Kochhars, opposed the need for remand, stating that the "main borrower of the loan has not been arrested, and the present accused was not the beneficiary of any amount”. Desai also brought to the notice of the court a letter sent by the ICICI Bank to the CBI in July 202I which stated that the bank had no wrongful loss in any of the transactions highlighted by the bureau. WATCH| Gravitas: Will Nirav Modi be extradited to India? Chanda and Deepak Kochhar, along with Dhoot and companies Supreme Energy, Videocon International Electronics Ltd, Nupower Renewables (NRL) managed by Deepak Kochhar and Videocon Industries Limited, have been named as accused by the CBI in the FIR filed under IPC sections of criminal conspiracy as well as provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act in 2019, the officials stated. The investigation bureau has alleged that credit facilities of Rs3,250 crore were sanctioned by the ICICI to the Videocon Group's companies promoted by Dhoot, which violated the bank's credit policy, RBI guidelines and the Banking Regulation Act. It also alleged that an investment of Rs64 crore was made by Dhoot in Nupower Renewables through Supreme Energy Pvt Ltd (SEPL) and SEPL was transferred to Pinnacle Energy Trust, which Deepak Kochhar was managing between 2010 and 2012. (With inputs from agencies)

ICICI loan fraud case: CBI arrests Videocon founder Venugopal Dhoot

Chanda Kochhar, the former CEO of ICICI Bank, and her husband Deepak Kochhar were arrested by the CBI on Friday in connection with alleged irregularities in a loan of more than Rs 3,000 crore given to the Videocon Group while she was the head of the private sector bank. The allegation that Chanda Kochhar, 59, had favoured Videocon Group, a consumer electronics and oil and gas exploration company, led to her resignation as CEO and managing director of ICICI Bank in October 2018. A year after that, ICICI said that it would classify&nbsp;Kochhar's departure as "termination for cause," claiming that she had violated&nbsp;the bank's code of conduct and standards.

The CBI has charged her of criminal conspiracy and fraud about suspected irregularities in a loan of Rs 3,250 crore granted to the Videocon Group in 2012, which resulted in the asset becoming a non-performing one for the ICICI Bank.

Deepak Kochhar and other members of her family, according to a whistleblower, allegedly profited from those&nbsp;transactions.

A few months later, Videocon group received a loan from the bank, the case's accusations state that former Videocon chairman Venugopal Dhoot spent millions of rupees in NuPower Renewables, a business started by Kochhar.

The loan was sanctioned by a committee of which&nbsp;Kochhar was a member, alleges the CBI. The agency says she misused&nbsp;her official position and "got illegal gratification/undue benefit through her husband from Dhoot for sanctioning&nbsp;₹&nbsp;3000 crore to Videocon."

"I reiterate that none of the credit decisions at the bank are unilateral ... the organisation design and structure obviate the possibility of conflict of interest," she had said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chanda Kochhar, the former CEO of ICICI Bank, and her husband Deepak Kochhar were arrested by the CBI on Friday in connection with alleged irregularities in a loan of more than Rs 3,000 crore given to the Videocon Group while she was the head of the private sector bank.

Chanda Kochhar, the former CEO of ICICI Bank, and her husband Deepak Kochhar were arrested by the CBI on Friday in connection with alleged irregularities in a loan of more than Rs 3,000 crore given to the Videocon Group while she was the head of the private sector bank. The allegation that Chanda Kochhar, 59, had favoured Videocon Group, a consumer electronics and oil and gas exploration company, led to her resignation as CEO and managing director of ICICI Bank in October 2018. A year after that, ICICI said that it would classify Kochhar's departure as "termination for cause," claiming that she had violated the bank's code of conduct and standards. The CBI has charged her of criminal conspiracy and fraud about suspected irregularities in a loan of Rs 3,250 crore granted to the Videocon Group in 2012, which resulted in the asset becoming a non-performing one for the ICICI Bank. Deepak Kochhar and other members of her family, according to a whistleblower, allegedly profited from those transactions. A few months later, Videocon group received a loan from the bank, the case's accusations state that former Videocon chairman Venugopal Dhoot spent millions of rupees in NuPower Renewables, a business started by Kochhar. The loan was sanctioned by a committee of which Kochhar was a member, alleges the CBI. The agency says she misused her official position and "got illegal gratification/undue benefit through her husband from Dhoot for sanctioning ₹ 3000 crore to Videocon." "I reiterate that none of the credit decisions at the bank are unilateral ... the organisation design and structure obviate the possibility of conflict of interest," she had said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ex-ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar, husband arrested by CBI in Videocon loan fraud case

India's Federal Investigating Agency has arrested former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar and her husband Deepak Kochhar as a part of its investigation into a loan fraud case. Chanda kochar is accused of misusing her position in the ICICI Bank in granting loans to Videocon group when she was heading the private sector.

India: Chanda Kochhar, husband arrested by CBI; accused of criminal conspiracy and cheating

Britain's main business lobby group said on Monday (November 21) that the country needed more migrant labour for greater productivity in view of soaring inflation and shrinking growth. The verdict from the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) came at its annual gathering in Birmingham, Britain's second biggest city.

The CBI conference took place after the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak slashed spending and increased taxes in budget.

"We come together, once more in extraordinary times," CBI director-general Tony Danker told delegates in Birmingham, central England.

"Britain is in the middle of stagflation -- rocketing inflation and negative growth -- for the first time that probably most of us can remember.

"We know how to fight inflation. We know how to fight recession. But we don't really know how to fight them together."

Sunak addressed the CBI on Monday. It has been one month since he took office after predecessor Liz Truss delivered an unfunded tax-slashing mini-budget that tanked the pound and sent UK borrowing costs soaring. Right now UK inflation is at 11.1 per cent. That is a 41-year high. This has meant that food and energy costs have risen in the wake of the Ukraine war.&nbsp;

Consumer prices have also raced higher as demand rebounds following the lifting of pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Britain's main business lobby group said on Monday (November 21) that the country needed more migrant labour for greater productivity in view of soaring inflation and shrinking growth.

Britain's main business lobby group said on Monday (November 21) that the country needed more migrant labour for greater productivity in view of soaring inflation and shrinking growth. The verdict from the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) came at its annual gathering in Birmingham, Britain's second biggest city. The CBI conference took place after the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak slashed spending and increased taxes in budget. "We come together, once more in extraordinary times," CBI director-general Tony Danker told delegates in Birmingham, central England. "Britain is in the middle of stagflation -- rocketing inflation and negative growth -- for the first time that probably most of us can remember. "We know how to fight inflation. We know how to fight recession. But we don't really know how to fight them together." Sunak addressed the CBI on Monday. It has been one month since he took office after predecessor Liz Truss delivered an unfunded tax-slashing mini-budget that tanked the pound and sent UK borrowing costs soaring. Right now UK inflation is at 11.1 per cent. That is a 41-year high. This has meant that food and energy costs have risen in the wake of the Ukraine war. Consumer prices have also raced higher as demand rebounds following the lifting of pandemic. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

More migrant labour needed in recession-hit UK, says business body

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday detained a Russian national at Indira Gandhi International Airport, India in connection with its probe into alleged manipulation of 2021 JEE-Mains exam.

Russian hacker arrested by India's CBI for 2021 JEE-Mains exam cheating

On Wednesday, India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told the Supreme Court that there was no criminality found following the investigation into intercepted conversations between the former lobbyist Niira Radia with several politicians, lawmakers, and industrialists. The probe was ordered back in 2013, by the country’s apex court as they believed that these conversations were indicative of “deep-rooted malice”.&nbsp;

The CBI was then asked to file a status report by the three-judge SC bench headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud and set the date for the next hearing on October 12. The CBI report was also submitted in response to a writ petition filed by industrialist Ratan Tata filed in 2011 who demanded a probe into how the conversations involving Radia got leaked and protested on the grounds of his privacy being violated which was threatened after the tapes leaked.&nbsp;

The Income Tax Department of India between 2008 to 2009 recorded thousands of conversations between Radia and politicians, lawyers, journalists and industrialists. Meanwhile the media reports at the time alleged that she was influencing the government and lawmakers’ portfolios during the United Progressive Alliance government, a grouping of centre-left political parties in India.&nbsp;

During today’s hearing, solicitor general Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the CBI said, “CBI was directed by your lordship to investigate all these conversations. 14 preliminary inquiries were registered and the report was placed before your lordships in a sealed cover.” She added, “No criminality was found in those. Also, now there are phone-tapping guidelines in place.” Bhati also went on inform the court that the report was submitted by the agency in 2015 but the matter was taken up by the court all these years.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the NGO Centre for Public Interest Litigation (CPIL) pressed for a probe into the tapes and said they should be made public. Advocate Prashant Bhushan appearing for the CPIL before the bench that also included Justices Hima Kohli and P S Narasimha said that Radia was a corporate lobbyist for two of the most important companies and attempted to influence lawmakers and other influential people, he said basing his argument on public interest.&nbsp;

In October 2013, the supreme court ordered the CBI to launch an investigation and examine 14 issues that were identified by the agency at the time. Reportedly, the agency investigated over 5,800 taped conversations between Radia and others as a part of an investigation into tax evasion. The government tapped Radia’s phone following a complaint to the alleged that within nine years she had managed to build a Rs. 300 crore business empire.&nbsp;

At the time while ordering a probe the apex court told the CBI, “The conversations are indicative of the deep-rooted malice by private enterprises in connivance with government officials and others for extraneous purposes.” The court reportedly also said that the people involved have gained from government officers and others, which suggests corruption between the government and private entities.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

On Wednesday, India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told the Supreme Court that there was no criminality found following the investigation into intercepted conversations between the former lobbyist Niira Radia with several politicians, lawmakers, and industrialists.

On Wednesday, India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told the Supreme Court that there was no criminality found following the investigation into intercepted conversations between the former lobbyist Niira Radia with several politicians, lawmakers, and industrialists. The probe was ordered back in 2013, by the country’s apex court as they believed that these conversations were indicative of “deep-rooted malice”. The CBI was then asked to file a status report by the three-judge SC bench headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud and set the date for the next hearing on October 12. The CBI report was also submitted in response to a writ petition filed by industrialist Ratan Tata filed in 2011 who demanded a probe into how the conversations involving Radia got leaked and protested on the grounds of his privacy being violated which was threatened after the tapes leaked. The Income Tax Department of India between 2008 to 2009 recorded thousands of conversations between Radia and politicians, lawyers, journalists and industrialists. Meanwhile the media reports at the time alleged that she was influencing the government and lawmakers’ portfolios during the United Progressive Alliance government, a grouping of centre-left political parties in India. During today’s hearing, solicitor general Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the CBI said, “CBI was directed by your lordship to investigate all these conversations. 14 preliminary inquiries were registered and the report was placed before your lordships in a sealed cover.” She added, “No criminality was found in those. Also, now there are phone-tapping guidelines in place.” Bhati also went on inform the court that the report was submitted by the agency in 2015 but the matter was taken up by the court all these years. On the other hand, the NGO Centre for Public Interest Litigation (CPIL) pressed for a probe into the tapes and said they should be made public. Advocate Prashant Bhushan appearing for the CPIL before the bench that also included Justices Hima Kohli and P S Narasimha said that Radia was a corporate lobbyist for two of the most important companies and attempted to influence lawmakers and other influential people, he said basing his argument on public interest. In October 2013, the supreme court ordered the CBI to launch an investigation and examine 14 issues that were identified by the agency at the time. Reportedly, the agency investigated over 5,800 taped conversations between Radia and others as a part of an investigation into tax evasion. The government tapped Radia’s phone following a complaint to the alleged that within nine years she had managed to build a Rs. 300 crore business empire. At the time while ordering a probe the apex court told the CBI, “The conversations are indicative of the deep-rooted malice by private enterprises in connivance with government officials and others for extraneous purposes.” The court reportedly also said that the people involved have gained from government officers and others, which suggests corruption between the government and private entities. (With inputs from agencies)

‘No criminality found’ in Niira Radia tapes, CBI tells Supreme Court

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the premier investigating agency in India, arrested four individuals after they allegedly tried to cheat people out of Rs 1 billion by making false promises of governorship and Rajya Sabha seats. According to reports, the agency recently carried out searches related to the investigation that led to the arrest of four members of the gang.

One of the suspects fled during the search, according to the officials, after assaulting CBI officers. They claim that he is the subject of a second FIR for assaulting agency representatives at the local police station. The CBI has reportedly named several people in connection with the inquiry, including Mahendra Pal Arora, Abhishek Boora, and Mohammed Aijaz Khan of Delhi-NCR, Ravindra Vithal Naik of Belgaum, Karnataka, and Kamalakar Premkumar Bandgar of Latur, Maharashtra.

Bandgar is alleged to have asked Boora, Arora, Khan, and Naik to fix any jobs that needed fixing in exchange for payment of a sizeable illegal gratuity while posing as a senior CBI officer and showcasing his "connections" with powerful people.

The FIR claimed that they acted in concert "with the single ulterior motive of defrauding private persons by falsely assuring them of seats in Rajya Sabha, appointment as governor, appointment as chairman in different government-run organisations under central government ministries and departments," among other positions, for large monetary consideration.

Through its source, the agency learned that Boora and Bandgar discussed ways to exploit the latter's supposed connections to influential people who are said to play "pivotal roles" in appointment choices.

The accused allegedly tried to deceive people by falsely offering them a seat in the Rajya Sabha in exchange for a sizeable sum of money exceeding Rs 1 billion, according to the FIR.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the premier investigating agency in India, arrested four individuals after they allegedly tried to cheat people out of Rs 1 billion by making false promises of governorship and Rajya Sabha seats.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the premier investigating agency in India, arrested four individuals after they allegedly tried to cheat people out of Rs 1 billion by making false promises of governorship and Rajya Sabha seats. According to reports, the agency recently carried out searches related to the investigation that led to the arrest of four members of the gang. One of the suspects fled during the search, according to the officials, after assaulting CBI officers. They claim that he is the subject of a second FIR for assaulting agency representatives at the local police station. The CBI has reportedly named several people in connection with the inquiry, including Mahendra Pal Arora, Abhishek Boora, and Mohammed Aijaz Khan of Delhi-NCR, Ravindra Vithal Naik of Belgaum, Karnataka, and Kamalakar Premkumar Bandgar of Latur, Maharashtra. Bandgar is alleged to have asked Boora, Arora, Khan, and Naik to fix any jobs that needed fixing in exchange for payment of a sizeable illegal gratuity while posing as a senior CBI officer and showcasing his "connections" with powerful people. The FIR claimed that they acted in concert "with the single ulterior motive of defrauding private persons by falsely assuring them of seats in Rajya Sabha, appointment as governor, appointment as chairman in different government-run organisations under central government ministries and departments," among other positions, for large monetary consideration. Through its source, the agency learned that Boora and Bandgar discussed ways to exploit the latter's supposed connections to influential people who are said to play "pivotal roles" in appointment choices. The accused allegedly tried to deceive people by falsely offering them a seat in the Rajya Sabha in exchange for a sizeable sum of money exceeding Rs 1 billion, according to the FIR. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rs 1 billion for Rajya Sabha seat: CBI busts racket falsely promising governorship, RS seats

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI),&nbsp;the UK's leading business organisation&nbsp;has revealed that "Britain is poised to sink into recession with biggest financial squeeze since the 1950s". It has&nbsp;warned the government that a stagnant economy will be 'set in stone' if it fails to take action ahead of the summer recess.&nbsp;The CBI further said that -&nbsp;"the countdown is&nbsp;on for the Prime Minister and the Chancellor to take necessary “critical action” to avoid the meltdown".&nbsp;CBI had lowered&nbsp;its growth outlook for this year from 5.1 per cent to 3.7 per cent while warning Britain about the possible threats, reports DailyMail.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-rishi-sunak-accused-of-wasting-14-billion-in-debt-interest-payments-486795">UK: Rishi Sunak accused of wasting $14 billion in debt interest payments</a>

The agency also warned that with&nbsp;the cost of living crisis, airports straining to cope, and nationwide rail strikes planned and timed to coincide with Groundhog Day EU on Fighting Northern Ireland Protocol, the economy would be a distant second place for politics in the coming months.

It added that&nbsp;"we&nbsp;believe&nbsp;that inflation is expected to remain high in autumn, rising to 8.7 per cent in October, leading to a historic squeeze&nbsp;in household income, which will impact consumer spending".

CBI Director-General Tony Danker said,&nbsp;"Let me be clear – we are expecting the economy to be quite stable. It won’t take long for us to hit a recession, and even if we don’t, it will feel the same for many people".

He even asked the ministers&nbsp;to ‘stop taking unilateral action’ to fix trade problems in Northern Ireland.

In an interview with The Sunday Times, Mr Danker openly criticised the government saying that “You have conservative politicians pushing for their own ideological favourite in return for supporting the PM”.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UK economy contracts in April: Economic output declined for the second month

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The agency further&nbsp;warned that Britain was headed for a ‘domestic recession’ as the citizens are facing problems due to the&nbsp;cost of living crisis.

The new Northern&nbsp;Ireland protocol upgrades the European Court of Justice to an advisory role and also focuses on&nbsp;repealing&nbsp;most EU checks on goods shipped to the province.

However, CBI also criticised this move, saying that "it may lead to trade disputes".

The CBI has called for measures, including measures to address the labour and skill shortage to overcome the situation and protect the future.&nbsp;

CBI Chief Economist Rain Newton-Smith said, "This is a tough set of figures to stomach. The war in Ukraine, a global pandemic, continued tensions on supply chains – all before Brexit – have proven to be a toxic recipe for the UK’s growth".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-largest-trade-union-warns-healthcare-staff-calling-in-sick-as-they-cannot-afford-to-cars-with-petrol-486938">UK's largest trade union warns healthcare staff calling in sick as they cannot afford to fill cars with petrol</a>

"The bottom line is that the outlook for UK exports is far worse than that of our worldwide competitors. It has to be changed for the better. ‘Business and government must work together to seek development globally", he added.

In a separate warning, the CBI said that the UK is headed for a ‘domestic recession’ in which people’s spending will fall from the second quarter of this year to 2023. It said it could leave the entire economy on the "brink of a crisis&nbsp;recession".

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Confederation of British Industry (CBI), the UK's leading business organisation has revealed that "Britain is poised to sink into recession with biggest financial squeeze since the 1950s".

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI), the UK's leading business organisation has revealed that "Britain is poised to sink into recession with biggest financial squeeze since the 1950s". It has warned the government that a stagnant economy will be 'set in stone' if it fails to take action ahead of the summer recess. The CBI further said that - "the countdown is on for the Prime Minister and the Chancellor to take necessary “critical action” to avoid the meltdown". CBI had lowered its growth outlook for this year from 5.1 per cent to 3.7 per cent while warning Britain about the possible threats, reports DailyMail. Also read | UK: Rishi Sunak accused of wasting $14 billion in debt interest payments The agency also warned that with the cost of living crisis, airports straining to cope, and nationwide rail strikes planned and timed to coincide with Groundhog Day EU on Fighting Northern Ireland Protocol, the economy would be a distant second place for politics in the coming months. It added that "we believe that inflation is expected to remain high in autumn, rising to 8.7 per cent in October, leading to a historic squeeze in household income, which will impact consumer spending". CBI Director-General Tony Danker said, "Let me be clear – we are expecting the economy to be quite stable. It won’t take long for us to hit a recession, and even if we don’t, it will feel the same for many people". He even asked the ministers to ‘stop taking unilateral action’ to fix trade problems in Northern Ireland. In an interview with The Sunday Times, Mr Danker openly criticised the government saying that “You have conservative politicians pushing for their own ideological favourite in return for supporting the PM”. Watch | UK economy contracts in April: Economic output declined for the second month The agency further warned that Britain was headed for a ‘domestic recession’ as the citizens are facing problems due to the cost of living crisis. The new Northern Ireland protocol upgrades the European Court of Justice to an advisory role and also focuses on repealing most EU checks on goods shipped to the province. However, CBI also criticised this move, saying that "it may lead to trade disputes". The CBI has called for measures, including measures to address the labour and skill shortage to overcome the situation and protect the future. CBI Chief Economist Rain Newton-Smith said, "This is a tough set of figures to stomach. The war in Ukraine, a global pandemic, continued tensions on supply chains – all before Brexit – have proven to be a toxic recipe for the UK’s growth". Also read | UK's largest trade union warns healthcare staff calling in sick as they cannot afford to fill cars with petrol "The bottom line is that the outlook for UK exports is far worse than that of our worldwide competitors. It has to be changed for the better. ‘Business and government must work together to seek development globally", he added. In a separate warning, the CBI said that the UK is headed for a ‘domestic recession’ in which people’s spending will fall from the second quarter of this year to 2023. It said it could leave the entire economy on the "brink of a crisis recession". (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Britain is poised to sink into recession with biggest financial squeeze since the 1950s, industry body warns

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday was conducting raids at 16 different locations in Bihar and Delhi linked to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad and his daughter, Misa Bharti, in connection with a land for job scam.

The scam involved taking land from unemployed youths on the pretext of providing them government jobs.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-court-sentences-indian-politician-lalu-prasad-to-five-years-in-prison-in-fodder-scam-case-455047">&nbsp;CBI court sentences Indian politician Lalu Prasad to five years in prison in fodder scam case</a>

A CBI source said that a fresh case was recently lodged against Lalu and others for accepting bribes from unemployed youths and cheating them on the pretext of providing them jobs in the government sector.

"Yadav, when he was the Union minister, through his aide or directly told the innocent persons that he would help them get government jobs. And they took land from the job seekers. However, the jobs were not provided to all," the source said.

When asked how many such land pieces were acquired by Lalu and others through this, the source said they were making a list.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-arunachal-jdu-will-break-in-bihar-as-well-tej-pratap-yadav-352556">After Arunachal, JD(U) will break in Bihar as well: Tej Pratap Yadav</a>

The CBI officials are also recording the statements of those who are present at the locations.

This comes weeks after the RJD leader was granted bail in the Rs 950-crore fodder scam case. He has already been convicted in five cases of the fodder scam.

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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday was conducting raids at 16 different locations in Bihar and Delhi linked to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad and his daughter, Misa Bharti, in connection with a land for job scam.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday was conducting raids at 16 different locations in Bihar and Delhi linked to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad and his daughter, Misa Bharti, in connection with a land for job scam. The scam involved taking land from unemployed youths on the pretext of providing them government jobs. Also read | CBI court sentences Indian politician Lalu Prasad to five years in prison in fodder scam case A CBI source said that a fresh case was recently lodged against Lalu and others for accepting bribes from unemployed youths and cheating them on the pretext of providing them jobs in the government sector. "Yadav, when he was the Union minister, through his aide or directly told the innocent persons that he would help them get government jobs. And they took land from the job seekers. However, the jobs were not provided to all," the source said. When asked how many such land pieces were acquired by Lalu and others through this, the source said they were making a list. Also read | After Arunachal, JD(U) will break in Bihar as well: Tej Pratap Yadav The CBI officials are also recording the statements of those who are present at the locations. This comes weeks after the RJD leader was granted bail in the Rs 950-crore fodder scam case. He has already been convicted in five cases of the fodder scam. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Lalu Prasad, daughter Misa raided by CBI in 'land for job' scam

A court in Delhi on Monday (March 7) sent former managing director and chief executive officer of National Stock Exchange (NSE) Chitra Ramkrishna, to 7-day CBI custody. Ramkrishna has been arrested in India's National Stock Exchange co-location case.

After hearing arguments from Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), special judge Sanjeev Aggarwal passed the order.

The probe agency had sought her 14-day custodial interrogation.

The CBI arrested the accused on Sunday after her anticipatory bail application was dismissed by the court on Saturday.

In its application before the court, the CBI alleged that the electronic devices recovered are being analyzed and would be used for conducting further examination of Ramakrishna.

It alleged that she was evasive and has continuously misguided the Investigation Officer and gave wrong statements.

The CBI alleged that her custodial interrogation was needed to unearth the criminal conspiracy and the role of other NSE officials and brokers in the company.

"She is also required to be confronted with co-accused Anand Subramanian, who is already in police custody of CBI, to understand the magnitude and scope of the criminal conspiracy. She is also required to be confronted with digital evidence available on record," the agency told the court.

The CBI further submitted that the material already collected in the present case show that Ramkrishna in conspiracy with Subramanian had improperly hired him by coercing the HR department of NSE.

"Thereafter, she in conspiracy with Subramanian influenced the officials of NSE to facilitate him in having access to important decision making processes of the NSE. During the same period M/s OPG Securities was gaining undue advantages in NSE by logging into secondary server," it said.

The CBI said that during Ramkrishna's tenure as Joint MD, NSE, the co-location was conceptualized and implemented. 
Ramkrishna was appointed as MD and CEO of NSE on April 1, 2013.

"Investigation has revealed that during the period 2013-16 after accused Chitra Ramakrishna took over as MD &amp; CEO of NSE, OPG Securities Pvt Ltd was allowed to connect to secondary server of the COLO-TBT Dissemination server for over 300 trading days causing it undue gain," it said.

It is further submitted that OPG Securities Pvt Ltd was warned repeatedly in 2012 that accessing the secondary server is a violation of the rules/guidelines of the NSE, it said.

"NSE however stopped issuing such warnings to OPG Securities without any justifiable reasons during 2013 when Ramkrishna was MD &amp; CEO of NSE. Investigation has also revealed that Muralidharan Natarajan, the CTO of NSETECH (a subsiiary of NSE), was responsible for putting in place the co-location architecture at NSE. He was reporting to Ramakrishna," the agency told the court.

(With inputs from agencies)

A court in Delhi on Monday (March 7) sent former managing director and chief executive officer of National Stock Exchange (NSE) Chitra Ramkrishna, to 7-day CBI custody.

A court in Delhi on Monday (March 7) sent former managing director and chief executive officer of National Stock Exchange (NSE) Chitra Ramkrishna, to 7-day CBI custody. Ramkrishna has been arrested in India's National Stock Exchange co-location case. After hearing arguments from Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), special judge Sanjeev Aggarwal passed the order. The probe agency had sought her 14-day custodial interrogation. The CBI arrested the accused on Sunday after her anticipatory bail application was dismissed by the court on Saturday. In its application before the court, the CBI alleged that the electronic devices recovered are being analyzed and would be used for conducting further examination of Ramakrishna. It alleged that she was evasive and has continuously misguided the Investigation Officer and gave wrong statements. The CBI alleged that her custodial interrogation was needed to unearth the criminal conspiracy and the role of other NSE officials and brokers in the company. "She is also required to be confronted with co-accused Anand Subramanian, who is already in police custody of CBI, to understand the magnitude and scope of the criminal conspiracy. She is also required to be confronted with digital evidence available on record," the agency told the court. The CBI further submitted that the material already collected in the present case show that Ramkrishna in conspiracy with Subramanian had improperly hired him by coercing the HR department of NSE. "Thereafter, she in conspiracy with Subramanian influenced the officials of NSE to facilitate him in having access to important decision making processes of the NSE. During the same period M/s OPG Securities was gaining undue advantages in NSE by logging into secondary server," it said. The CBI said that during Ramkrishna's tenure as Joint MD, NSE, the co-location was conceptualized and implemented. Ramkrishna was appointed as MD and CEO of NSE on April 1, 2013. "Investigation has revealed that during the period 2013-16 after accused Chitra Ramakrishna took over as MD & CEO of NSE, OPG Securities Pvt Ltd was allowed to connect to secondary server of the COLO-TBT Dissemination server for over 300 trading days causing it undue gain," it said. It is further submitted that OPG Securities Pvt Ltd was warned repeatedly in 2012 that accessing the secondary server is a violation of the rules/guidelines of the NSE, it said. "NSE however stopped issuing such warnings to OPG Securities without any justifiable reasons during 2013 when Ramkrishna was MD & CEO of NSE. Investigation has also revealed that Muralidharan Natarajan, the CTO of NSETECH (a subsiiary of NSE), was responsible for putting in place the co-location architecture at NSE. He was reporting to Ramakrishna," the agency told the court. (With inputs from agencies)

NSE ex-CEO Chitra Ramkrishna sent to 7-day CBI custody

A team from the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) arrived at the Michaelpatti village in Tamil Nadu's Thanjavur district to probe the suicide of a minor schoolgirl. In a video, the victim was seen mentioning about the attempts of her school staff to forcibly convert her to Christianity and having troubled, overburdened her with work. The investigation of this case, which was initially being carried out by the Tamil Nadu Police was handed over to the CBI, as per directions from the Madras High Court. The parents had approached the Court, expressing apprehensions over the credibility of the Police probe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-court-sentences-indian-politician-lalu-prasad-to-five-years-in-prison-in-fodder-scam-case-455047">CBI court sentences Indian politician Lalu Prasad to five years in prison in fodder scam case</a>

The case pertains to a 17-year old girl from a poor background, who studied in a Christian Missionary School in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district. According to Police, the victim had consumed poisonous material on 9th January and had succumbed ten days later. In a video, the victim is seen saying, “In front of me also they asked my parents about converting me to Christianity, so that she would make me study. She would also keep scolding me and not let me stay there”. When asked who she was referring to, the victim is heard saying "Sister Rachel Mary”. When asked if she was tortured because she refused to convert to Christianity, the victim is heard saying “it could be possible”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/stepping-into-5th-year-in-politics-kamal-haasan-says-next-target-is-2024-parliamentary-polls-455043">Stepping into 5th year in Politics, Kamal Haasan says next target is 2024 Parliamentary Polls</a>

As per the Legal Rights Protection Forum’s(LRPF) complaint to India’s National Commission for Protection of Child Rights(NCPCR), the victim’s school had been illegally converting children into Christianity and was imposing corporal punishments on those who resisted. It added that this was causing mental agony to students and driving them to extreme steps. “The victim was forced to convert into Christianity and when she refused the same, she was refused permission to return home from hostel. She was made to clean toilets and wash dishes” reads the complaint. It also adds that the child tried to end her life owing to the atrocities inflicted upon her(following which, she eventually succumbed).

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-prime-minister-modi-inaugurates-asias-biggest-gobar-dhan-plant-in-indore-454538">&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Modi inaugurates Asia's biggest 'gobar-dhan' plant in Indore</a>

The bereaved family had initially approached the Court seeking a CB-CID probe into the case. This was after, Thanjavur SP, Ravali Priya,IPS, had blatantly denied any 'forced&nbsp;conversion&nbsp;angle' in the case, even before the investigation began to take shape. Later, even influential Ministers in Tamil Nadu had denied the Conversion angle. Following the Court order for a CBI probe, the Tamil Nadu Government had challenged the same in the Supreme Court. However, the apex court directed the CBI to continue its probe in the case.

A team from the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) arrived at the Michaelpatti village in Tamil Nadu's Thanjavur district to probe the suicide of a minor schoolgirl.

A team from the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) arrived at the Michaelpatti village in Tamil Nadu's Thanjavur district to probe the suicide of a minor schoolgirl. In a video, the victim was seen mentioning about the attempts of her school staff to forcibly convert her to Christianity and having troubled, overburdened her with work. The investigation of this case, which was initially being carried out by the Tamil Nadu Police was handed over to the CBI, as per directions from the Madras High Court. The parents had approached the Court, expressing apprehensions over the credibility of the Police probe. Also read | CBI court sentences Indian politician Lalu Prasad to five years in prison in fodder scam case The case pertains to a 17-year old girl from a poor background, who studied in a Christian Missionary School in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district. According to Police, the victim had consumed poisonous material on 9th January and had succumbed ten days later. In a video, the victim is seen saying, “In front of me also they asked my parents about converting me to Christianity, so that she would make me study. She would also keep scolding me and not let me stay there”. When asked who she was referring to, the victim is heard saying "Sister Rachel Mary”. When asked if she was tortured because she refused to convert to Christianity, the victim is heard saying “it could be possible”. Also read | Stepping into 5th year in Politics, Kamal Haasan says next target is 2024 Parliamentary Polls As per the Legal Rights Protection Forum’s(LRPF) complaint to India’s National Commission for Protection of Child Rights(NCPCR), the victim’s school had been illegally converting children into Christianity and was imposing corporal punishments on those who resisted. It added that this was causing mental agony to students and driving them to extreme steps. “The victim was forced to convert into Christianity and when she refused the same, she was refused permission to return home from hostel. She was made to clean toilets and wash dishes” reads the complaint. It also adds that the child tried to end her life owing to the atrocities inflicted upon her(following which, she eventually succumbed). Also read | Indian Prime Minister Modi inaugurates Asia's biggest 'gobar-dhan' plant in Indore The bereaved family had initially approached the Court seeking a CB-CID probe into the case. This was after, Thanjavur SP, Ravali Priya,IPS, had blatantly denied any 'forced conversion angle' in the case, even before the investigation began to take shape. Later, even influential Ministers in Tamil Nadu had denied the Conversion angle. Following the Court order for a CBI probe, the Tamil Nadu Government had challenged the same in the Supreme Court. However, the apex court directed the CBI to continue its probe in the case.

Tamil Nadu: CBI visits school, begins probe in alleged forced Conversion, suicide of minor girl

The CBI has booked ABG Shipyard Limited, its former chairman and managing director Rishi Kamlesh Agarwal and others for allegedly cheating a consortium of banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) of over 228.42 billion Indian rupees ($3.03 billion).

Besides Agarwal, the agency has also named the then executive director Santhanam Muthaswamy, directors Ashwini Kumar, Sushil Kumar Agarwal and Ravi Vimal Nevetia and another company ABG International Pvt Ltd for alleged offences of criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust and abuse of official position under the IPC and the Prevention of Corruption Act, they said.

“Searches were conducted on Saturday at 13 locations in the premises of accused including private company, directors at Surat, Bharuch, Mumbai, Pune etc which led to recovery of incriminating documents,” CBI said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/antrix-devas-deal-was-a-fraud-against-india-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-slams-congress-445752">Alos read |&nbsp;Antrix-Devas deal was a fraud against India: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman slams Congress</a>

According to figures from the forensic audit that were included in the CBI complaint, the company owed 70.89 billion rupees to ICICI Bank, 36.34 billion rupees to IDBI Bank, 29.25 billion rupees to the State Bank of India, 16.14 billion rupees to Bank of Baroda, 12.44 bilion rupees to Punjab National Bank and 12.28 billion rupees to Indian Overseas Bank.

State Bank of India, where the accounts of ABG Shipyard were maintained, had filed the forensic audit in a report to the CBI.

That report, included in the CBI complaint posted on Sunday, said the fraud took the form of diversion of funds, "misappropriation and criminal breach of trust with an objective to gain unlawfully at the cost of the Bank's funds".

"The money was used for purposes other than the purpose for which the funds were released by the Bank", it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pnb-scam-billion-dollar-diamond-fraud-case-puts-indias-state-banks-in-focus-33285">Also read |&nbsp;PNB scam: Billion dollar diamond fraud case puts India's state banks in focus</a>

The SBI had first filed a complaint on November 8, 2019 on which the CBI had sought some clarifications on March 12, 2020.

The bank filed a fresh complaint in August 2020. After "scrutinising" the complaint for a year and and a half, the CBI acted on the complaint, filing an FIR on February 7 this year.

In its complaint, the SBI said ABG Shipyard Limited (ABGSL) is the flagship company of the ABG Group, which is engaged in the business of ship building and ship repair.

The ABGSL being a major player in the Indian shipbuilding industry operates from shipyards are located at Dahej and Surat in Gujarat with the capacity to build vessels up to 18,000 deadweight tonnage (DWT) at Surat Shipyard and 1,20,000 deadweight tonnage (DWT) at Dahej Shipyard.

The company has constructed over 165 vessels (including 46 for the export market) in the last 16 years including specialized vessels like the newsprint carriers. self-discharging and loading bulk cement carriers, floating cranes etc with class approval of all international classification societies like Lloyds, American Bureau of Shipping. Bureau Veritas, IRS, DNV, the complaint said.

“Global crisis has impacted the shipping industry due to fall in commodity demand and prices and subsequent fall in cargo demand. The cancellation of contracts for a few ships and vessels resulted in piling up inventory. This has resulted in a paucity of working capital and caused a significant increase in the operating cycle. thereby aggravating the liquidity problem and financial problem,” the complaint said.

The SBI said there was no demand of commercial vessels as the industry was going through a downturn even in 2015 which was further aggravated due to lack of defence orders making it difficult for the company to maintain repayment schedule, it said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The CBI has booked ABG Shipyard Limited, its former chairman and managing director Rishi Kamlesh Agarwal and others for allegedly cheating a consortium of banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) of over 228.

The CBI has booked ABG Shipyard Limited, its former chairman and managing director Rishi Kamlesh Agarwal and others for allegedly cheating a consortium of banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) of over 228.42 billion Indian rupees ($3.03 billion). Besides Agarwal, the agency has also named the then executive director Santhanam Muthaswamy, directors Ashwini Kumar, Sushil Kumar Agarwal and Ravi Vimal Nevetia and another company ABG International Pvt Ltd for alleged offences of criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust and abuse of official position under the IPC and the Prevention of Corruption Act, they said. “Searches were conducted on Saturday at 13 locations in the premises of accused including private company, directors at Surat, Bharuch, Mumbai, Pune etc which led to recovery of incriminating documents,” CBI said in a statement. Alos read | Antrix-Devas deal was a fraud against India: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman slams Congress According to figures from the forensic audit that were included in the CBI complaint, the company owed 70.89 billion rupees to ICICI Bank, 36.34 billion rupees to IDBI Bank, 29.25 billion rupees to the State Bank of India, 16.14 billion rupees to Bank of Baroda, 12.44 bilion rupees to Punjab National Bank and 12.28 billion rupees to Indian Overseas Bank. State Bank of India, where the accounts of ABG Shipyard were maintained, had filed the forensic audit in a report to the CBI. That report, included in the CBI complaint posted on Sunday, said the fraud took the form of diversion of funds, "misappropriation and criminal breach of trust with an objective to gain unlawfully at the cost of the Bank's funds". "The money was used for purposes other than the purpose for which the funds were released by the Bank", it said. Also read | PNB scam: Billion dollar diamond fraud case puts India's state banks in focus The SBI had first filed a complaint on November 8, 2019 on which the CBI had sought some clarifications on March 12, 2020. The bank filed a fresh complaint in August 2020. After "scrutinising" the complaint for a year and and a half, the CBI acted on the complaint, filing an FIR on February 7 this year. In its complaint, the SBI said ABG Shipyard Limited (ABGSL) is the flagship company of the ABG Group, which is engaged in the business of ship building and ship repair. The ABGSL being a major player in the Indian shipbuilding industry operates from shipyards are located at Dahej and Surat in Gujarat with the capacity to build vessels up to 18,000 deadweight tonnage (DWT) at Surat Shipyard and 1,20,000 deadweight tonnage (DWT) at Dahej Shipyard. The company has constructed over 165 vessels (including 46 for the export market) in the last 16 years including specialized vessels like the newsprint carriers. self-discharging and loading bulk cement carriers, floating cranes etc with class approval of all international classification societies like Lloyds, American Bureau of Shipping. Bureau Veritas, IRS, DNV, the complaint said. “Global crisis has impacted the shipping industry due to fall in commodity demand and prices and subsequent fall in cargo demand. The cancellation of contracts for a few ships and vessels resulted in piling up inventory. This has resulted in a paucity of working capital and caused a significant increase in the operating cycle. thereby aggravating the liquidity problem and financial problem,” the complaint said. The SBI said there was no demand of commercial vessels as the industry was going through a downturn even in 2015 which was further aggravated due to lack of defence orders making it difficult for the company to maintain repayment schedule, it said. (With inputs from agencies)

ABG Shipyard case: All you need to know about India's biggest bank fraud

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court ordered a probe by India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), into the suicide of a minor girl who was studying in a Christian Missionary school in Tamil Nadu.

The case came to the fore after unverified videos of the victim emerged on social media, where she alleged a forced conversion bid at school. In another unverified video, she is seen mentioning that she was harassed and forced to perform burdensome chores in her school hostel, despite her resisting it.&nbsp;

The bereaved family had approached the Madras High Court seeking a CB-CID probe into the case after they expressed their lack of faith in the Tamil Nadu Police investigation.

Notably, Thanjavur SP, Ravali Priya, IPS, had blatantly denied any 'forced conversion angle' in the case, even before the investigation began to take shape.

Legal Rights Protection Forum had written to India's Home Ministry seeking action against the said Officer for allegedly misleading the probe. The IPS Officer's transfer was also sought till the time the probe is completed.&nbsp;

The last hearing of the case, which took place on Friday, saw fierce arguments and allegations being put forth by the victim's family's counsel and the school's counsel. The judge, Justice GR Swaminathan heard both sides and the Government lawyer, before reserving his orders in the case.&nbsp;

The case pertains to a 17-year old girl from a poor background, who studied in a Christian Missionary School in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district.

According to Police, the victim had consumed poisonous material on 9th January and had succumbed ten days later.

In an unverified video, she is seen saying, “In front of me also they asked my parents about converting me to Christianity so that she would make me study. She would also keep scolding me and not let me stay there”.

When asked who she was referring to, the victim is heard saying "Sister Rachel Mary”. When asked if she was tortured because she refused to convert to Christianity, the victim is heard saying “it could be possible”.

As per the Legal Rights Protection Forum’s (LRPF) complaint to India’s National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), the victim’s school had been illegally converting children into Christianity and was imposing corporal punishments on those who resisted.

It added that this was causing mental agony to students and driving them to extreme steps.

“The victim was forced to convert into Christianity and when she refused the same, she was refused permission to return home from hostel. She was made to clean toilets and wash dishes” reads the complaint.

It also adds that the child tried to end her life owing to the atrocities inflicted upon her(following which, she eventually succumbed).

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court ordered a probe by India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), into the suicide of a minor girl who was studying in a Christian Missionary school in Tamil Nadu.

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court ordered a probe by India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), into the suicide of a minor girl who was studying in a Christian Missionary school in Tamil Nadu. The case came to the fore after unverified videos of the victim emerged on social media, where she alleged a forced conversion bid at school. In another unverified video, she is seen mentioning that she was harassed and forced to perform burdensome chores in her school hostel, despite her resisting it. The bereaved family had approached the Madras High Court seeking a CB-CID probe into the case after they expressed their lack of faith in the Tamil Nadu Police investigation. Notably, Thanjavur SP, Ravali Priya, IPS, had blatantly denied any 'forced conversion angle' in the case, even before the investigation began to take shape. Legal Rights Protection Forum had written to India's Home Ministry seeking action against the said Officer for allegedly misleading the probe. The IPS Officer's transfer was also sought till the time the probe is completed. The last hearing of the case, which took place on Friday, saw fierce arguments and allegations being put forth by the victim's family's counsel and the school's counsel. The judge, Justice GR Swaminathan heard both sides and the Government lawyer, before reserving his orders in the case. The case pertains to a 17-year old girl from a poor background, who studied in a Christian Missionary School in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district. According to Police, the victim had consumed poisonous material on 9th January and had succumbed ten days later. In an unverified video, she is seen saying, “In front of me also they asked my parents about converting me to Christianity so that she would make me study. She would also keep scolding me and not let me stay there”. When asked who she was referring to, the victim is heard saying "Sister Rachel Mary”. When asked if she was tortured because she refused to convert to Christianity, the victim is heard saying “it could be possible”. As per the Legal Rights Protection Forum’s (LRPF) complaint to India’s National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), the victim’s school had been illegally converting children into Christianity and was imposing corporal punishments on those who resisted. It added that this was causing mental agony to students and driving them to extreme steps. “The victim was forced to convert into Christianity and when she refused the same, she was refused permission to return home from hostel. She was made to clean toilets and wash dishes” reads the complaint. It also adds that the child tried to end her life owing to the atrocities inflicted upon her(following which, she eventually succumbed).

India: Madras HC orders CBI probe into alleged 'forced-conversion', suicide of minor girl in Tamil Nadu

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has asked the Central Government to consider and pass a law that would grant greater autonomy to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The Justices N.Kirubakaran and Pugalendhi also mentioned that the CBI has to be on par with entities such as the Election Commission and Comptroller Auditor General (CAG).

It was emphasized that the CBI must not be under the administrative control of the Central Government. The court was hearing a plea by a group from Ramanathapuram that sought a CBI probe into an alleged Rs.300cr financial fraud.&nbsp;

In its order, the Court pointed out the public demand for CBI investigation into cases involving heinous and sensitive crimes, in the absence of proper investigation by local police. It was noted that while the people trusted the CBI and its credibility, the premier probing agency dragged its feet, citing resource and manpower shortages that prevented them from conducting investigations.&nbsp;

Referring to the many serious cases investigated by the CBI that led to an acquittal, the Court said that it reflected badly on the investigation of the agency. It was added that the CBI’s dependence on officers from the police, CISF and CRPF in investigating white-collar crimes highlighted that the officers coming on deputation did not have experience in probing such cases. A slew of measures and modernizations to augment the CBI were also shared.&nbsp;

The court order mentioned the need to have CBI officers with a wide spectrum of knowledge and expertise in various fields. Numerous high-profile cases, such as the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, 2G Scam, Coal Scam, Hawala Scandal, Sushant Singh Rajput Suicide, etc. were stated to showcase the different domains of crime.&nbsp;

Among the directions issued to the government of India were to enact a separate Act giving statutory status with more powers and jurisdiction to the CBI, to make the agency more independent like the Election Commission and CAG, and to provide a separate budgetary allocation for the CBI. The Director of the CBI shall be given powers as that of Secretary to the Government and shall directly report to the Minister/Prime Minister, the order added.

It was added that CFSL (Central Forensic Science Laboratory) should have more modern facilities that are on par with the FBI in the US and Scotland Yard in the UK. The Court order also urged the CBI to file a policy for permanent recruitment of Cyber Forensic experts, financial audit experts and also send a detailed proposal seeking an increase in Divisions/Wings and strength of officers in the CBI. The Court has also stated deadlines, before which, the CBI and the government of India must respond and take action on these matters.

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has asked the Central Government to consider and pass a law that would grant greater autonomy to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has asked the Central Government to consider and pass a law that would grant greater autonomy to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The Justices N.Kirubakaran and Pugalendhi also mentioned that the CBI has to be on par with entities such as the Election Commission and Comptroller Auditor General (CAG). It was emphasized that the CBI must not be under the administrative control of the Central Government. The court was hearing a plea by a group from Ramanathapuram that sought a CBI probe into an alleged Rs.300cr financial fraud. In its order, the Court pointed out the public demand for CBI investigation into cases involving heinous and sensitive crimes, in the absence of proper investigation by local police. It was noted that while the people trusted the CBI and its credibility, the premier probing agency dragged its feet, citing resource and manpower shortages that prevented them from conducting investigations. Referring to the many serious cases investigated by the CBI that led to an acquittal, the Court said that it reflected badly on the investigation of the agency. It was added that the CBI’s dependence on officers from the police, CISF and CRPF in investigating white-collar crimes highlighted that the officers coming on deputation did not have experience in probing such cases. A slew of measures and modernizations to augment the CBI were also shared. The court order mentioned the need to have CBI officers with a wide spectrum of knowledge and expertise in various fields. Numerous high-profile cases, such as the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, 2G Scam, Coal Scam, Hawala Scandal, Sushant Singh Rajput Suicide, etc. were stated to showcase the different domains of crime. Among the directions issued to the government of India were to enact a separate Act giving statutory status with more powers and jurisdiction to the CBI, to make the agency more independent like the Election Commission and CAG, and to provide a separate budgetary allocation for the CBI. The Director of the CBI shall be given powers as that of Secretary to the Government and shall directly report to the Minister/Prime Minister, the order added. It was added that CFSL (Central Forensic Science Laboratory) should have more modern facilities that are on par with the FBI in the US and Scotland Yard in the UK. The Court order also urged the CBI to file a policy for permanent recruitment of Cyber Forensic experts, financial audit experts and also send a detailed proposal seeking an increase in Divisions/Wings and strength of officers in the CBI. The Court has also stated deadlines, before which, the CBI and the government of India must respond and take action on these matters.

CBI should get autonomy at par with FBI, Scotland Yard : Madras High Court tells Indian Govt

Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has ordered that all elephant death cases in Tamil Nadu be probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), with the assistance of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB). Justices MM Sundaresh and Sathish Kumar passed the order in response to two Public Interest Litigations that sought action against perpetrators of wildlife crimes, poaching and suspicious deaths.&nbsp;

One of the PILs was filed by advocate Manoj Immanuel, and it was regarding the 7 suspicious elephant deaths in Meghamalai, Tamil Nadu in 2018. According to the petitioner’s counsel Alagumani and Lajapathi Roy, though the deaths were said to be caused by electrocution, they were suspected to be poaching cases and such deaths went on unabated.&nbsp;

Advocate Alagumani told Zee Media that they had also cited news reports on poachers (arrested in Kerala) having confessed about their elephant poaching activities in Tamil Nadu forests. In response to their 2018 case, the Court had earlier ordered the WCCB to provide a report. The WCCB filed in 2019 stated that there was a big gang involved in these elephant poaching cases and that there were powerful kingpins operating behind.

In the latest case, the Court observed that elephants were an important part of the wild ecosystem and that their deaths were not isolated incidents, but are of a trans-boundary nature. The judges mentioned the importance of preventing poaching and aiding conservation efforts. It was stated that elephant deaths were not just limited to few specific forest areas and that the perpetrators belonged to various states, hence necessitating a CBI probe to ensure that the kingpins are nabbed.

Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has ordered that all elephant death cases in Tamil Nadu be probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), with the assistance of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB).

Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has ordered that all elephant death cases in Tamil Nadu be probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), with the assistance of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB). Justices MM Sundaresh and Sathish Kumar passed the order in response to two Public Interest Litigations that sought action against perpetrators of wildlife crimes, poaching and suspicious deaths. One of the PILs was filed by advocate Manoj Immanuel, and it was regarding the 7 suspicious elephant deaths in Meghamalai, Tamil Nadu in 2018. According to the petitioner’s counsel Alagumani and Lajapathi Roy, though the deaths were said to be caused by electrocution, they were suspected to be poaching cases and such deaths went on unabated. Advocate Alagumani told Zee Media that they had also cited news reports on poachers (arrested in Kerala) having confessed about their elephant poaching activities in Tamil Nadu forests. In response to their 2018 case, the Court had earlier ordered the WCCB to provide a report. The WCCB filed in 2019 stated that there was a big gang involved in these elephant poaching cases and that there were powerful kingpins operating behind. In the latest case, the Court observed that elephants were an important part of the wild ecosystem and that their deaths were not isolated incidents, but are of a trans-boundary nature. The judges mentioned the importance of preventing poaching and aiding conservation efforts. It was stated that elephant deaths were not just limited to few specific forest areas and that the perpetrators belonged to various states, hence necessitating a CBI probe to ensure that the kingpins are nabbed.

Elephant deaths in Tamil Nadu to be probed by CBI, orders Madras High Court

The CBI has booked UK-based Cambridge Analytica and Global Science Research Ltd for illegally harvesting data of Facebook users in India for commercial purposes, officials said on Friday.

The action came after a preliminary enquiry into the matter which showed that Global Science Research had created an app "thisisyourdigitallife" which was authorised by Facebook to collect specific datasets of its users for research and academic purposes in 2014, they said.

The company then entered into a criminal conspiracy with Cambridge Analytica, allowing it to use the data harvested by it for commercial purposes, the officials said.

Facebook had collected certificates from both the firms in 2016-17 that data collected by them using "thisisyourdigitallife" was accounted for and destroyed. However, the CBI enquiry did not find any evidence of any such destruction, according to the officials.

"The enquiry prima facie established that Global Science Research Ltd, UK dishonestly and fraudulently accessed data of app users of "thisisyourdigitallife" and their Facebook friends," an official said, citing the FIR.&nbsp;

The CBI has booked UK-based Cambridge Analytica and Global Science Research Ltd for illegally harvesting data of Facebook users in India for commercial purposes, officials said on Friday.

The CBI has booked UK-based Cambridge Analytica and Global Science Research Ltd for illegally harvesting data of Facebook users in India for commercial purposes, officials said on Friday. The action came after a preliminary enquiry into the matter which showed that Global Science Research had created an app "thisisyourdigitallife" which was authorised by Facebook to collect specific datasets of its users for research and academic purposes in 2014, they said. The company then entered into a criminal conspiracy with Cambridge Analytica, allowing it to use the data harvested by it for commercial purposes, the officials said. Facebook had collected certificates from both the firms in 2016-17 that data collected by them using "thisisyourdigitallife" was accounted for and destroyed. However, the CBI enquiry did not find any evidence of any such destruction, according to the officials. "The enquiry prima facie established that Global Science Research Ltd, UK dishonestly and fraudulently accessed data of app users of "thisisyourdigitallife" and their Facebook friends," an official said, citing the FIR.

CBI files FIR against Cambridge Analytica over illegally harvesting data of Facebook users in India

India: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday registered a case against UK-based political consulting company Cambridge Analytica for the 'illegal harvesting' of personal data from Facebook users.

CBI registers case against Cambridge Analytica over Facebook data theft

More than 6 months after his shocking death, there are still several unanswered questions surrounding Sushant Singh Rajput's death. The Central Bureau Of Investigation on Wednesday has said that the case is not yet closed and that they still looking into all aspects.&nbsp; 
The CBI took over the case nearly 145 days ago and has since then questioned several people related to the actor. 
 
Earlier in October, a team of doctors from Delhi's AIIMS had stated in a report submitted to CBI that the actor's death was a case of suicide and no foul play was involved. The report had dismissed the theories of poisoning and strangling floated by the actor's family and their lawyer.

A few days back BJP MP Subramanian Swamy had written to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) asking about the status of the investigation, after which the PMO sent the letter to the CBI.

In its reply, the CBI said that it "is conducting investigation in a thorough and professional manner using latest scientific techniques. During the investigation, all aspects are being looked at and no aspect has been ruled out as on date."

"During investigation, advanced mobile forensic equipment including latest software have been used for extraction and analysis of relevant data available in the digital devices and also for analysis of dump data of the relevant cell tower locations related to the case," the CBI further said.

"During investigation, all the witnesses have been examined to understand the circumstances and apprehensions raised by the complainant and his family members and other independent sources. Intensive and thorough investigation has been carried out in this regard," the CBI said.

"The investigation team along with senior officers visited all places of concern - Aligarh, Faridabad, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Manesar and Patna," CBI added.

The 34-year-old actor was found dead on June 14 in his apartment in Mumbai. An initial probe by the Mumbai Police, based on the autopsy, called it a suicide but his family alleged that he was murdered. A nationwide campaign called #JusticeForSSR ensued soon after with many of his fans and family members demanding a CBI probe into the case.&nbsp;

More than 6 months after his shocking death, there are still several unanswered questions surrounding Sushant Singh Rajput's death. The Central Bureau Of Investigation on Wednesday has said that the case is not yet closed and that they still looking into all aspects.

More than 6 months after his shocking death, there are still several unanswered questions surrounding Sushant Singh Rajput's death. The Central Bureau Of Investigation on Wednesday has said that the case is not yet closed and that they still looking into all aspects. The CBI took over the case nearly 145 days ago and has since then questioned several people related to the actor. Earlier in October, a team of doctors from Delhi's AIIMS had stated in a report submitted to CBI that the actor's death was a case of suicide and no foul play was involved. The report had dismissed the theories of poisoning and strangling floated by the actor's family and their lawyer. A few days back BJP MP Subramanian Swamy had written to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) asking about the status of the investigation, after which the PMO sent the letter to the CBI. In its reply, the CBI said that it "is conducting investigation in a thorough and professional manner using latest scientific techniques. During the investigation, all aspects are being looked at and no aspect has been ruled out as on date." "During investigation, advanced mobile forensic equipment including latest software have been used for extraction and analysis of relevant data available in the digital devices and also for analysis of dump data of the relevant cell tower locations related to the case," the CBI further said. "During investigation, all the witnesses have been examined to understand the circumstances and apprehensions raised by the complainant and his family members and other independent sources. Intensive and thorough investigation has been carried out in this regard," the CBI said. "The investigation team along with senior officers visited all places of concern - Aligarh, Faridabad, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Manesar and Patna," CBI added. The 34-year-old actor was found dead on June 14 in his apartment in Mumbai. An initial probe by the Mumbai Police, based on the autopsy, called it a suicide but his family alleged that he was murdered. A nationwide campaign called #JusticeForSSR ensued soon after with many of his fans and family members demanding a CBI probe into the case.

Sushant Singh Rajput death: CBI is still investigating the case, looking at all aspects

The Supreme Court directed the Centre on Wednesday to install CCTV cameras and recording equipment at the offices of investigating agencies, including the CBI, the ED and National Investigation Agency (NIA), which conduct interrogations and have the power of arrest.

A bench headed by Justice R F Nariman said that states and Union Territories (UTs) should ensure that CCTV cameras are installed at each and every police station, at all entry and exit points, main gate, lock-ups, corridors, lobby and reception as also areas outside the lock-up rooms so that no part is left uncovered.

The apex court had in 2018 ordered the installation of CCTV cameras in police stations to check human rights abuses.

It said further that the CCTV systems must be equipped with night vision and have audio as well as video footage and it shall be mandatory for the Centre, states and UTs to purchase such systems which allow storage of data for the maximum period possible, at least one year.

''In addition, the Union of India is also directed to install CCTV cameras and recording equipment in the offices of: Central Bureau of Investigation, National Investigation Agency, Enforcement Directorate, Narcotics Control Bureau, Department of Revenue Intelligence, Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), any other agency which carries out interrogations and has the power of arrest,''&nbsp;said the bench, also comprising Justices K M Joseph and Aniruddha Bose.

''As most of these agencies carry out interrogation in their office(s), CCTVs shall be compulsorily installed in all offices where such interrogation and holding of accused takes place in the same manner as it would in a police station,''&nbsp;the bench said in its order.

The top court said that in September this year, it had impleaded all the states and UTs in the matter to find out the exact position of CCTV cameras in each police station as well as the constitution of Oversight Committees in accordance with the April 3, 2018 order.

The apex court, while dealing with a matter related to custodial torture, had in July this year taken note of a 2017 case in which it had ordered the installation of CCTV cameras in all the police stations to check human rights abuses, videography of crime scene and setting up of a Central Oversight Committee and such a panel in every state and Union Territory.

In its 12-page order, the bench noted that till November 24, compliance affidavits and action is taken reports were filed by 14 states and the majority of them have failed to disclose the exact position of CCTV cameras in each police station and other details.

It said that state-level oversight committee (SLOC) must consist of secretary or additional secretary of the home department, secretary or additional secretary of the finance department; director-general or inspector general of police and chairperson or member of the state women's commission.

It said district level oversight committee (DLOC) should comprise of -- divisional commissioner or regional commissioner or revenue commissioner division of district, district magistrate and superintendent of police and mayor of a municipality within the district or head of 'zilla panchayat' in rural areas. It also specified the duties of SLOC which included purchase, distribution and installation of CCTVs and equipment, obtain budgetary allocation for the same.

It said DLOC shall have the obligations including interact with station house officer (SHO) about its functioning and to review footage stored from CCTVs in various police stations to ''check for any human rights violation that may have occurred but are not reported''. 
It said adequate funds be allocated for this by the states and UTs at the earliest.

It said duty and responsibility for working, maintenance and recording of CCTVs shall be of the SHO of police station concerned.

It said in areas where there is either no electricity or internet, it shall be the duty of states and UTs to provide the same expeditiously using any mode of providing power, including solar or wind.

''Whenever there is information of force being used at police stations resulting in serious injury and/or custodial deaths, it is necessary that persons be free to complain for a redressal of the same,''&nbsp;it said.

It said SLOC and central oversight body shall give directions to all police stations and agencies to prominently display at the entrance and inside police stations, offices of investigative agencies about the coverage of concerned premises by CCTV and this shall be done by large posters in English, Hindi and vernacular language.

''It shall further mention that CCTV footage is preserved for a certain minimum time period, which shall not be less than six months, and the victim has a right to have the same secured in the event of violation of his human rights,''&nbsp;it said.

It said authorities would implement its order ''both in letter and in spirit as soon as possible.''

The Supreme Court directed the Centre on Wednesday to install CCTV cameras and recording equipment at the offices of investigating agencies, including the CBI, the ED and National Investigation Agency (NIA), which conduct interrogations and have the power of arrest.

The Supreme Court directed the Centre on Wednesday to install CCTV cameras and recording equipment at the offices of investigating agencies, including the CBI, the ED and National Investigation Agency (NIA), which conduct interrogations and have the power of arrest. A bench headed by Justice R F Nariman said that states and Union Territories (UTs) should ensure that CCTV cameras are installed at each and every police station, at all entry and exit points, main gate, lock-ups, corridors, lobby and reception as also areas outside the lock-up rooms so that no part is left uncovered. The apex court had in 2018 ordered the installation of CCTV cameras in police stations to check human rights abuses. It said further that the CCTV systems must be equipped with night vision and have audio as well as video footage and it shall be mandatory for the Centre, states and UTs to purchase such systems which allow storage of data for the maximum period possible, at least one year. ''In addition, the Union of India is also directed to install CCTV cameras and recording equipment in the offices of: Central Bureau of Investigation, National Investigation Agency, Enforcement Directorate, Narcotics Control Bureau, Department of Revenue Intelligence, Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), any other agency which carries out interrogations and has the power of arrest,'' said the bench, also comprising Justices K M Joseph and Aniruddha Bose. ''As most of these agencies carry out interrogation in their office(s), CCTVs shall be compulsorily installed in all offices where such interrogation and holding of accused takes place in the same manner as it would in a police station,'' the bench said in its order. The top court said that in September this year, it had impleaded all the states and UTs in the matter to find out the exact position of CCTV cameras in each police station as well as the constitution of Oversight Committees in accordance with the April 3, 2018 order. The apex court, while dealing with a matter related to custodial torture, had in July this year taken note of a 2017 case in which it had ordered the installation of CCTV cameras in all the police stations to check human rights abuses, videography of crime scene and setting up of a Central Oversight Committee and such a panel in every state and Union Territory. In its 12-page order, the bench noted that till November 24, compliance affidavits and action is taken reports were filed by 14 states and the majority of them have failed to disclose the exact position of CCTV cameras in each police station and other details. It said that state-level oversight committee (SLOC) must consist of secretary or additional secretary of the home department, secretary or additional secretary of the finance department; director-general or inspector general of police and chairperson or member of the state women's commission. It said district level oversight committee (DLOC) should comprise of -- divisional commissioner or regional commissioner or revenue commissioner division of district, district magistrate and superintendent of police and mayor of a municipality within the district or head of 'zilla panchayat' in rural areas. It also specified the duties of SLOC which included purchase, distribution and installation of CCTVs and equipment, obtain budgetary allocation for the same. It said DLOC shall have the obligations including interact with station house officer (SHO) about its functioning and to review footage stored from CCTVs in various police stations to ''check for any human rights violation that may have occurred but are not reported''. It said adequate funds be allocated for this by the states and UTs at the earliest. It said duty and responsibility for working, maintenance and recording of CCTVs shall be of the SHO of police station concerned. It said in areas where there is either no electricity or internet, it shall be the duty of states and UTs to provide the same expeditiously using any mode of providing power, including solar or wind. ''Whenever there is information of force being used at police stations resulting in serious injury and/or custodial deaths, it is necessary that persons be free to complain for a redressal of the same,'' it said. It said SLOC and central oversight body shall give directions to all police stations and agencies to prominently display at the entrance and inside police stations, offices of investigative agencies about the coverage of concerned premises by CCTV and this shall be done by large posters in English, Hindi and vernacular language. ''It shall further mention that CCTV footage is preserved for a certain minimum time period, which shall not be less than six months, and the victim has a right to have the same secured in the event of violation of his human rights,'' it said. It said authorities would implement its order ''both in letter and in spirit as soon as possible.''

SC directs Centre to install CCTV cameras in all interrogation offices, lock-ups

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday said it had registered a case and taken over the investigation of the Hathras gang rape-murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman.

The CBI registered the case on a complaint of the victim`s brother who alleged that an accused had tried to strangulate her sister in a millet field on September 14.

The case was earlier probed by the Uttar Pradesh Police. The agency took over the case following the a request by the Uttar Pradesh government and further notification from the central government.

The CBI said that it has constituted a special team to probe the case, which led to the widespread criticism of the UP government after the victim was hurriedly cremated by Hathras police on September 30.

The woman died at a Delhi hospital on September 29, a fortnight after she was allegedly raped at her village by four upper-caste men. 
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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday said it had registered a case and taken over the investigation of the Hathras gang rape-murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday said it had registered a case and taken over the investigation of the Hathras gang rape-murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman. The CBI registered the case on a complaint of the victim`s brother who alleged that an accused had tried to strangulate her sister in a millet field on September 14. The case was earlier probed by the Uttar Pradesh Police. The agency took over the case following the a request by the Uttar Pradesh government and further notification from the central government. The CBI said that it has constituted a special team to probe the case, which led to the widespread criticism of the UP government after the victim was hurriedly cremated by Hathras police on September 30. The woman died at a Delhi hospital on September 29, a fortnight after she was allegedly raped at her village by four upper-caste men.

CBI takes over Hathras gang-rape case, begins probe

All accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case have been acquitted by the Special CBI court in Lucknow on Wednesday. The court in Lucknow pronounced its judgment in the 28-year-old case and said that the demolition of the mosque was not pre-planned, but a spontaneous act.

Babri Masjid demolition case verdict: Court says demolition not premediated

News Alert: All accused acquitted in Babri Masjid demolition case

A special court in Lucknow will deliver the verdict in the Babri Masjid demolition case today. The verdict will be delivered by judge SK Yadav. The judge had earlier directed all 32 accused to be present in the special court on September 30 during the announcement of the verdict.

Babri Masjid demolition case verdict: BJP Leader LK Advani, MM Joshi among the accused

A special CBI court in Lucknow on Wednesday will deliver the verdict in the Babri Masjid demolition case. The verdict will be delivered by judge SK Yadav. The judge had earlier directed all 32 accused to be present in the special court on September 30 during the announcement of the verdict.

India: Special court to deliver Babri Masjid demolition case verdict

India's Central Bureau of Investigation has not found any evidence that would suggest that Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput was murdered. &nbsp; 
 
According to reports, a team of the investigative agency is currently in Mumbai and the probe is underway. They are reportedly now looking at the angle of suicide and if abetment to suicide case can be established. 
 
Over the past few weeks, several people have been summoned by CBI in relation to the case. The actor's girlfriend Rhea Chakraborty, his roommate Siddharth Pithani, house staff, former manager Shruti Modi, Samuel Miranda and others have been questioned by the CBI. 
 
Meanwhile, The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has been grilling Goa-based hotelier Gaurav Arya in connection with the money-laundering probe in Sushant's death case. According to reports, Arya, the owner of Hotel Tamarind and Cafe Cotinga in Goa, once again appeared before the financial probe agency on Tuesday morning and is being questioned after his chats with Rhea related to drugs came into light. ED is reportedly also questioning Arya about his financial dealings with Rhea and her brother Showik. The ED is recording his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). 
 
The CBI took over the case a few weeks back following Sushant's father's FIR accusing Rhea and her family members of abetment of suicide and money laundering.

<h3><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-Vidya-Balan-My-heart-breaks-at-the-vilification-of-Rhea-Chakraborty-324687" hreflang="en">Also read- Vidya Balan: My heart breaks at the vilification of Rhea Chakraborty</a></h3>

&nbsp;

India's Central Bureau of Investigation has not found any evidence that would suggest that Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput was murdered. According to reports, a team of the investigative agency is currently in Mumbai and the probe is underway.

India's Central Bureau of Investigation has not found any evidence that would suggest that Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput was murdered. According to reports, a team of the investigative agency is currently in Mumbai and the probe is underway. They are reportedly now looking at the angle of suicide and if abetment to suicide case can be established. Over the past few weeks, several people have been summoned by CBI in relation to the case. The actor's girlfriend Rhea Chakraborty, his roommate Siddharth Pithani, house staff, former manager Shruti Modi, Samuel Miranda and others have been questioned by the CBI. Meanwhile, The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has been grilling Goa-based hotelier Gaurav Arya in connection with the money-laundering probe in Sushant's death case. According to reports, Arya, the owner of Hotel Tamarind and Cafe Cotinga in Goa, once again appeared before the financial probe agency on Tuesday morning and is being questioned after his chats with Rhea related to drugs came into light. ED is reportedly also questioning Arya about his financial dealings with Rhea and her brother Showik. The ED is recording his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The CBI took over the case a few weeks back following Sushant's father's FIR accusing Rhea and her family members of abetment of suicide and money laundering. Also read- Vidya Balan: My heart breaks at the vilification of Rhea Chakraborty

Sushant Singh Rajput case: CBI finds no evidence that suggests the actor was murdered

The CBI has booked four Navy officers and 14 others for allegedly generating fake bills of Rs 6.76 crore for supplying IT hardware to the Western Naval Command, officials said.

Captain Atul Kulkarni, Commanders Mandar Godbole and R P Sharma, and Petty Officer LOG (F&amp;A) Kuldeep Singh Baghel allegedly prepared seven fraudulent bills of Rs 6.76 crore, they said Wednesday.

"All these accused naval officers abused their official position to defraud the naval authorities and rob the exchequer of public money which led to pecuniary gain to themselves," according to the CBI FIR.

The probe agency has also carried out searches in this connection, sources said.

The bills were allegedly raised between January and March in 2016 at the Western Naval Command in Mumbai for supplying information technology and networking related hardware.

"None of the items mentioned in the bills were supplied to HQ, WNC (Western Naval Command). No documents pertaining to preparation of the bills i.E. Approvals, financial sanction, purchase orders, receipt vouchers, etc. Are available at HQ," the CBI FIR said.

The agency has also booked four officials of the Controller of Defence Accounts, besides private companies Star Network, ACME Networks, Cyberspace Infovision and Moksh Infosys.

The CBI has booked four Navy officers and 14 others for allegedly generating fake bills of Rs 6.76 crore for supplying IT hardware to the Western Naval Command, officials said.

The CBI has booked four Navy officers and 14 others for allegedly generating fake bills of Rs 6.76 crore for supplying IT hardware to the Western Naval Command, officials said. Captain Atul Kulkarni, Commanders Mandar Godbole and R P Sharma, and Petty Officer LOG (F&A) Kuldeep Singh Baghel allegedly prepared seven fraudulent bills of Rs 6.76 crore, they said Wednesday. "All these accused naval officers abused their official position to defraud the naval authorities and rob the exchequer of public money which led to pecuniary gain to themselves," according to the CBI FIR. The probe agency has also carried out searches in this connection, sources said. The bills were allegedly raised between January and March in 2016 at the Western Naval Command in Mumbai for supplying information technology and networking related hardware. "None of the items mentioned in the bills were supplied to HQ, WNC (Western Naval Command). No documents pertaining to preparation of the bills i.E. Approvals, financial sanction, purchase orders, receipt vouchers, etc. Are available at HQ," the CBI FIR said. The agency has also booked four officials of the Controller of Defence Accounts, besides private companies Star Network, ACME Networks, Cyberspace Infovision and Moksh Infosys.

CBI books 4 Navy officers for generating fake bills to defraud Western Naval Command

An important meeting pertaining to the investigation in the 30kg gold smuggling case is underway between CBI and Customs Officials at the Customs (Preventive) Office in Ernakulam, Kerala.

An important meeting pertaining to the investigation in the 30kg gold smuggling case is underway between CBI and Customs Officials at the Customs (Preventive) Office in Ernakulam, Kerala. This meeting comes after several developments in the investigation of this case and its political fallout on Tuesday. In response to the alleged involvement of a top bureaucrat M.Sivasankar in the gold smuggling via a diplomatic channel and the ensuing controversies, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday said that the State government had nothing to do with it, and put the onus on the Central government. “All airports in the country come under the central government. For any issues happening here, the central government is responsible and the State government has nothing to do with this.” However, the opposition parties in Kerala suggest otherwise. Opposition leaders have claimed that M.Sivasankar, the bureaucrat who served as the Chief Minister’s Principal Secretary and IT Secretary had ties with a woman named Swapna Suresh, who is said to be the kingpin of the case. According to reports, Sivasankar had been embroiled in another controversy recently, after he initiated an agreement with an American firm, Sprinklr to share details of COVID-19 patients and suspects, without the knowledge of CM and the cabinet. Questions are being raised by Opposition parties on why Swapna Suresh(alleged kingpin) was appointed a few months ago on contract as the marketing liaison officer of the Space Park under the Kerala State Information Technology Infrastructure Limited (KSITIL). The KSITIL works under Kerala’s IT department, and it has been alleged that Sivasankar was behind her appointment. On Tuesday, the Kerala Chief Minister’s office said that M Sivasankar was removed from the post of Secretary to the Chief Minister. Some reports also say that the Sivasankar was sent on year-long leave. An old letter that has surfaced from the UAE Consulate in Kerala says that Swapna Suresh (alleged kingpin) had joined as Secretary to the Consul General of UAE, Kerala in October 2016. It added that within a few months she was offered a direct contract by MOFA office Secretary, considering her outstanding performance. The letter dated 3rd September 2019 states that she had creditably discharged the duties till 31st August 2019. “One of the major highlights of her tenure was her handling of the visit of the Ruler of Sharjah and other royal delegations” reads the letter. The smuggling case so far On Sunday, the Customs at the Thiruvananthapuram airport seized 30kg of gold, valued nearly Rs.15 crore, in a diplomatic cargo addressed to the UAE Consulate in the capital city. The cardboard carton weighing 79kg had contained foodstuffs and what was said to be “articles other than foodstuffs”. On closer examination and dismantling, it was found that the “articles other than foodstuffs” had gold concealed in them. As per the remand request filed before the Chief Judicial Magistrate, the Charge d’Affairs of the UAE Consulate affirmed that his family had sent the list of nine items that were mentioned as foodstuffs. He also confirmed that he had no relation with the items that are mentioned as “articles other than foodstuffs”. The charge d'affaires also informed the Customs officials that Sarith, a former PRO in the Consulate had helped in getting the goods cleared in India. Adding that Sarith was no longer a consulate staff, he stated that Sarith’s help was sought for odd jobs. The charge d'affaires specifically denied any legal claim on his part and that of the UAE Consulate on the gold that was recovered. Appearing before the Customs authorities, the former consulate PRO Sarith gave a voluntary statement under section 108 of the Customs Act, which indicated his active role in bringing the consignment containing gold to India under the guise of diplomatic baggage. The remand request also states that Sarith gave evasive answers when asked about his accomplices in the offence. Examination of Sarith’s mobile phone also revealed that he had formatted it after the goods were detained at the airport, indicating an attempt to destroy evidence. It is alleged that Swapna Suresh, who had earlier worked with the consulate is the kingpin of this gold smuggling racket. Pictures and videos from several Kerala government functions and banquets also show the woman in close proximity with senior government and opposition leaders and other officials. She is said to be facing a crime branch probe for fabricating a complaint against an Air India Official. However, Opposition leaders also claim that the alleged kingpin Swapna Suresh had been working as Operations Manager with Kerala State Information Technology Infrastructure Limited, under Kerala Government's IT department until Monday 6th July. She is currently missing and the Customs department has launched a search for her. Addressing a Press Conference, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan asserted that the woman had no connection with the Chief Minister’s Office or the state government and that she served in a contractual role. “It is a contractual job and she was recruited through a placement agency, not directly by the government. She is understood to have worked under the Air India SATS and the consulate. It needs to be checked if she was appointed there (IT Dept) with some influence” he said. The UAE mission in Delhi had said that their authorities have launched an investigation to find out who sent the cargo containing gold to the UAE Consulate. The authorities stressed that the culprits who not only committed a major crime but also sought to tarnish the reputation of the UAE mission in India will not be spared. A diplomatic Cargo or bag is a physical box or container with legal protections that is used for carrying official documents or other items between a diplomatic mission and its home government. As long as these bags or containers are marked as Diplomatic, they have immunity from search or seizure as per International law. In this case, the search was conducted based on necessary permissions from the UAE authorities.

Kerala: 30kg gold smuggling controversy gets murky; CBI, Customs meeting underway

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has booked the GVK Group Chairmna,&nbsp;Gunupati Venkata Krishna Reddy, for a scam related to Mumbai airport.

Allegedly, GVK Chairman, Airport Authority of India (AAI) and few others participated in a fraud in the development of Mumbai's international airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.&nbsp;

The fraud has apparently incurred the government of India a loss of more than&nbsp;$92 million.

CBI filed a criminal case against GVK Chairman Reddy, his son, AAI and few other individuals in late hours of Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-airport-gears-up-to-restart-operations-with-safety-measures-in-place-294771">Also read:&nbsp;Mumbai airport gears up to restart operations with safety measures in place</a>

GVK Group, which has multiple investments and projects formed a joint venture with AAI in 2006 to modernise, repair, and take care of the day-tot-day activities of Mumbai International Airport.

According to the charges alleged by the&nbsp;CBI, the accused generated fake work contracts during the financial year 2017-18. The CBI has also accused the organisations of issuing funds to several companies which were, in the end, not executed.

Misusing airport's reserves and resources has also been mentioned in the chargesheet, along with inflating its expenditure and underreporting revenue.

GVK and AAI have not yet commented on the charges.&nbsp;

GVK&nbsp;is also developing another airport near Mumbai.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has booked the GVK Group Chairmna, Gunupati Venkata Krishna Reddy, for a scam related to Mumbai airport. Allegedly, GVK Chairman, Airport Authority of India (AAI) and few others participated in a fraud in the development of Mumbai's international airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has booked the GVK Group Chairmna, Gunupati Venkata Krishna Reddy, for a scam related to Mumbai airport. Allegedly, GVK Chairman, Airport Authority of India (AAI) and few others participated in a fraud in the development of Mumbai's international airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. The fraud has apparently incurred the government of India a loss of more than $92 million. CBI filed a criminal case against GVK Chairman Reddy, his son, AAI and few other individuals in late hours of Wednesday. Also read: Mumbai airport gears up to restart operations with safety measures in place GVK Group, which has multiple investments and projects formed a joint venture with AAI in 2006 to modernise, repair, and take care of the day-tot-day activities of Mumbai International Airport. According to the charges alleged by the CBI, the accused generated fake work contracts during the financial year 2017-18. The CBI has also accused the organisations of issuing funds to several companies which were, in the end, not executed. Misusing airport's reserves and resources has also been mentioned in the chargesheet, along with inflating its expenditure and underreporting revenue. GVK and AAI have not yet commented on the charges. GVK is also developing another airport near Mumbai.

CBI books GVK Chairman for a Mumbai airport scam of $92 million

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has appreciated the CB-CID police for their quick investigation and searches, that led to the arrest of five cops of the Sathankulam Police station, in connection with the custodial death of father-son duo Jayaraj and Bennix.&nbsp;

The High Court which has taken suo-motu cognizance of the crime has been at the forefront of ensuring that the probe is expedited and justice is delivered. Be it with regards filing of murder charges or the arrest of Policemen that court has overseen important development in the case.&nbsp;

The Court had asked the CB-CID to probe the case till such time the CBI takes it over, to ensure that the crucial evidence is not destroyed. It was Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who had made a public announcement about the case being handed over two the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI).

So far, Sub Inspectors Raguganesh, Balakrishnan, Constables Murugan, Muthuraj and inspector&nbsp;Sridhar of the Sathankulam Police station have been arrested. There were photos and videos doing the rounds, of people from Sathankulam bursting crackers and celebrating the arrest of the cops.

During a hearing on Thursday, the court ordered that the witness in the case, policewoman Revathy&nbsp;be provided adequate protection and also paid leave.

A Division Bench of Justice PN Prakash and B Pugalendhi called up Revathy and spoke to her&nbsp;over the phone&nbsp;for a few minutes.

The Bench had sought details on the number of persons arrested, numbers of persons charged and the details of those who have been charged under these cases. Questions were also raised pertaining to which court these arrested persons would be produced before.&nbsp;

In its response, the government stated that the investigation has been conducted at Sathankulam Police station, government hospital and also the sub-jail. Based on the questioning of Head Constable, Revathy, a case has been registered against 5 cops from the Sathankulam station for IPC Section 302(murder). 3 woos would be appearing before the Kovilpatti magistrate and continuous investigation is underway, it was added.&nbsp;

The Bench also added that&nbsp;considering the challenges involved in taking the accused to the Kovilpatti Magistrate, over 100kms away, powers would be granted for Tuticorin Chief Judicial Magistrate to handle the case.

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has appreciated the CB-CID police for their quick investigation and searches, that led to the arrest of five cops of the Sathankulam Police station, in connection with the custodial death of father-son duo Jayaraj and Bennix.

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has appreciated the CB-CID police for their quick investigation and searches, that led to the arrest of five cops of the Sathankulam Police station, in connection with the custodial death of father-son duo Jayaraj and Bennix. The High Court which has taken suo-motu cognizance of the crime has been at the forefront of ensuring that the probe is expedited and justice is delivered. Be it with regards filing of murder charges or the arrest of Policemen that court has overseen important development in the case. The Court had asked the CB-CID to probe the case till such time the CBI takes it over, to ensure that the crucial evidence is not destroyed. It was Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who had made a public announcement about the case being handed over two the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI). So far, Sub Inspectors Raguganesh, Balakrishnan, Constables Murugan, Muthuraj and inspector Sridhar of the Sathankulam Police station have been arrested. There were photos and videos doing the rounds, of people from Sathankulam bursting crackers and celebrating the arrest of the cops. During a hearing on Thursday, the court ordered that the witness in the case, policewoman Revathy be provided adequate protection and also paid leave. A Division Bench of Justice PN Prakash and B Pugalendhi called up Revathy and spoke to her over the phone for a few minutes. The Bench had sought details on the number of persons arrested, numbers of persons charged and the details of those who have been charged under these cases. Questions were also raised pertaining to which court these arrested persons would be produced before. In its response, the government stated that the investigation has been conducted at Sathankulam Police station, government hospital and also the sub-jail. Based on the questioning of Head Constable, Revathy, a case has been registered against 5 cops from the Sathankulam station for IPC Section 302(murder). 3 woos would be appearing before the Kovilpatti magistrate and continuous investigation is underway, it was added. The Bench also added that considering the challenges involved in taking the accused to the Kovilpatti Magistrate, over 100kms away, powers would be granted for Tuticorin Chief Judicial Magistrate to handle the case.

Madras High Court lauds CB-CID probe; orders protection and paid-leave for lady cop witness

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