Former Kolkata police commissioner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/saradha-chit-fund-scam-cbi-issues-lookout-notice-against-rajeev-kumar-221738">Rajeev Kumar skipped a meeting with the CBI officials</a> on Monday despite being summoned by the agency for questioning in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam, officials said.

Kumar, however, sent a letter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), seeking some more time to appear before its officers in connection with the case.

A CID official visited the CBI office in Salt Lake and submitted the letter, in which Kumar said he is on a three-day leave and, therefore, unable to attend the summon.

CBI sources said officials were at the Barasat court to prevent Kumar from taking any legal step to stop the agency from interrogating him.

Watch:&nbsp;CBI sleuths in Kolkata to arrest Ex. Pol. Commissioner Rajeev Kumar

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/saradha-case-cbi-sleuths-in-kolkata-to-arrest-ex-pol-commissioner-rajeev-kumar-221826/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The CBI had on Sunday summoned the IPS officer to the agency's Salt Lake office on Monday after a team failed to meet him at his residence in connection with the Saradha probe.

Kumar has been reinstated as the additional director general of the CID on Sunday night by the West Bengal government after the model code of conduct ceased to exist.

On Saturday, the CBI had also issued a lookout notice against Kumar to prevent him from leaving the country.&nbsp;

The agency wants custodial interrogation of Kumar in connection with the chit fund scam as he was heading the police's special investigation team to probe the case before the CBI took over.

The Ponzi scheme scam was over Rs 2,500 crore by the Saradha group of companies, which had duped lakhs of customers promising higher rates of returns on their investment, the CBI had said.&nbsp;

Former Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar skipped a meeting with the CBI officials on Monday despite being summoned by the agency for questioning in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam, officials said.

Former Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar skipped a meeting with the CBI officials on Monday despite being summoned by the agency for questioning in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam, officials said. Kumar, however, sent a letter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), seeking some more time to appear before its officers in connection with the case. A CID official visited the CBI office in Salt Lake and submitted the letter, in which Kumar said he is on a three-day leave and, therefore, unable to attend the summon. CBI sources said officials were at the Barasat court to prevent Kumar from taking any legal step to stop the agency from interrogating him. Watch: CBI sleuths in Kolkata to arrest Ex. Pol. Commissioner Rajeev Kumar The CBI had on Sunday summoned the IPS officer to the agency's Salt Lake office on Monday after a team failed to meet him at his residence in connection with the Saradha probe. Kumar has been reinstated as the additional director general of the CID on Sunday night by the West Bengal government after the model code of conduct ceased to exist. On Saturday, the CBI had also issued a lookout notice against Kumar to prevent him from leaving the country. The agency wants custodial interrogation of Kumar in connection with the chit fund scam as he was heading the police's special investigation team to probe the case before the CBI took over. The Ponzi scheme scam was over Rs 2,500 crore by the Saradha group of companies, which had duped lakhs of customers promising higher rates of returns on their investment, the CBI had said.

Former Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar skips CBI summons, sends letter seeking more time

A Delhi court on Friday extended the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in connection with the Aircel-Maxis cases till May 6.

The cases are being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

The ED, through its counsel Advocate Naveen Kumar Matta, sought adjournment of the matter for four weeks as the response to Letters Rogatory from Singapore is awaited.

The court fixed the next date of hearing as May 6.

During the course of today's hearing, Chidambaram's counsel insisted on argument and objected ED's demand for a four-week extension.

The court, however, adjourned the matter to May 6 for arguments on bail but told the ED that the matter won't be delayed any further.

Senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who represented the father-son duo, argued why bail cannot be granted to their clients when a charge sheet in the matter has been filed.

"They should show the court what they have found. Till then they should grant us bail. As and when they come up with the information we will come to you. CBI has not gone further in the matter. We should get bail in CBI case," said Sibal.

"There is a triple test that we need to look into. Just because someone says that they may get something that doesn't mean the bail cannot be granted," Singhvi argued.

The ED's counsel then retorted to Sibal's statement, saying it was incorrect to say that no steps were taken.

"We have deputed a senior officer in Singapore. We have taken steps even in March and we have put that on the affidavit."

The case pertains to an approval granted by the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB), a body under Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, to Mauritius-based firm Global Communication and Services Holdings Limited for investment in Aircel in alleged violation of norms.

The FIPB approval was allegedly granted in 2006 when Chidambaram was India's Finance Minister.

According to rules and foreign direct investment (FDI) policy of the Central government, Chidambaram was only empowered to give approval to proposals involving foreign investment up to Rs 600 crore.

However, he is accused of approving foreign investment proposal of Global Communication and Services Holdings Ltd worth around Rs 3,560 crore.

A Delhi court on Friday extended the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in connection with the Aircel-Maxis cases till May 6.

A Delhi court on Friday extended the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in connection with the Aircel-Maxis cases till May 6. The cases are being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The ED, through its counsel Advocate Naveen Kumar Matta, sought adjournment of the matter for four weeks as the response to Letters Rogatory from Singapore is awaited. The court fixed the next date of hearing as May 6. During the course of today's hearing, Chidambaram's counsel insisted on argument and objected ED's demand for a four-week extension. The court, however, adjourned the matter to May 6 for arguments on bail but told the ED that the matter won't be delayed any further. Senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who represented the father-son duo, argued why bail cannot be granted to their clients when a charge sheet in the matter has been filed. "They should show the court what they have found. Till then they should grant us bail. As and when they come up with the information we will come to you. CBI has not gone further in the matter. We should get bail in CBI case," said Sibal. "There is a triple test that we need to look into. Just because someone says that they may get something that doesn't mean the bail cannot be granted," Singhvi argued. The ED's counsel then retorted to Sibal's statement, saying it was incorrect to say that no steps were taken. "We have deputed a senior officer in Singapore. We have taken steps even in March and we have put that on the affidavit." The case pertains to an approval granted by the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB), a body under Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, to Mauritius-based firm Global Communication and Services Holdings Limited for investment in Aircel in alleged violation of norms. The FIPB approval was allegedly granted in 2006 when Chidambaram was India's Finance Minister. According to rules and foreign direct investment (FDI) policy of the Central government, Chidambaram was only empowered to give approval to proposals involving foreign investment up to Rs 600 crore. However, he is accused of approving foreign investment proposal of Global Communication and Services Holdings Ltd worth around Rs 3,560 crore.

Aircel-Maxis case: Protection from arrest to P Chidambaram, son Karti extended till May 6

While addressing an election rally in Dongargaon town in Rajnandgaon on Friday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/even-after-19-years-of-rule-in-odisha-naveen-patnaik-cant-talk-in-odia-amit-shah-209838">Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah</a> termed the recent Naxal attack in Dantewada as a ''political conspiracy'' asked Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe it.

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-bjp-convoy-attacked-by-naxals-policemen-mla-killed-209063">BJP MLA Bheema Mandavi and four policemen were killed</a> on Tuesday when the Naxals attacked a convoy in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada. The incident occurred at Shyamgiri hills when Mandavi's convoy was heading towards Kuwakonda from Bacheli area.

"Our MLA Bheema Mandavi was killed in the Naxal attack. I pay my tribute to him and pray that the departed soul rests in peace. It was not a normal incident and it seems to be a political conspiracy," Shah said.

"Mandavi's wife has demanded a CBI probe into the attack. If the chief minister (Bhupesh Baghel) do not want to hide anything, he should get the incident probed by the central agency. A neutral probe should be carried out into the attack," Shah added.

BJP president also targeted the chief minister for banning CBI from investigating any fresh cases in the state without seeking the consent of state government.

The BJP has fielded its state general secretary Santosh Pandey in Rajnandgaon Lok Sabha constituency. The constituency will go to polls in the third phase on April 23.

While addressing an election rally in Dongargaon town in Rajnandgaon on Friday, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah termed the recent Naxal attack in Dantewada as a ''political conspiracy'' asked Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe it.

While addressing an election rally in Dongargaon town in Rajnandgaon on Friday, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah termed the recent Naxal attack in Dantewada as a ''political conspiracy'' asked Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe it. A BJP MLA Bheema Mandavi and four policemen were killed on Tuesday when the Naxals attacked a convoy in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada. The incident occurred at Shyamgiri hills when Mandavi's convoy was heading towards Kuwakonda from Bacheli area. "Our MLA Bheema Mandavi was killed in the Naxal attack. I pay my tribute to him and pray that the departed soul rests in peace. It was not a normal incident and it seems to be a political conspiracy," Shah said. "Mandavi's wife has demanded a CBI probe into the attack. If the chief minister (Bhupesh Baghel) do not want to hide anything, he should get the incident probed by the central agency. A neutral probe should be carried out into the attack," Shah added. BJP president also targeted the chief minister for banning CBI from investigating any fresh cases in the state without seeking the consent of state government. The BJP has fielded its state general secretary Santosh Pandey in Rajnandgaon Lok Sabha constituency. The constituency will go to polls in the third phase on April 23.

Dantewada's Naxal attack 'political conspiracy', CBI should probe it: Amit Shah

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-dismisses-plea-seeking-ban-on-roadshows-bike-rallies-during-polls-205462">Supreme Court Monday</a> issued a notice to CBI on a plea seeking direction to the probe agency that it place the investigation report in the disproportionate assets case against SP leader Mulayam Singh Yadav and his sons Akhilesh and Prateek.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta asked the CBI to file its response in two weeks on the status of the investigation against the Samajwadi Party patriarch and his sons.

The bench was hearing a plea filed by Congress leader Vishwanath Chaturvedi seeking a direction to the probe agency to apprise the court of the status of the investigation.

Chaturvedi in 2005 filed the PIL in the top court seeking directions to CBI to take appropriate action to prosecute Yadav, Akhilesh and his wife Dimple and Prateek under the Prevention of Corruption Act for allegedly acquiring assets more than the known sources of their income by misusing their powers.

The apex court in its verdict of March 1, 2007 directed CBI "to enquire into allegations" and find out as to whether the plea with regard to disproportionate assets of the SP leaders was "correct or not".

In 2012, the court dismissed the review petitions of Yadav and his sons against its verdict and directed CBI to go ahead with the probe against them in the disproportionate assets case.

It allowed the review plea of Dimple and directed CBI to drop the inquiry against her saying that she was not holding any public office.

The court had modified its March 1, 2007 order and asked CBI to file the status report before the court and not the government.

Chaturvedi, in his fresh plea, said: "Despite the yawning gap between the complaint made/court's directions and the pendency of filing of a regular Case in this matter, an unusually long period as already escaped without any action being taken on the matter for 11 long years."

The matter is still pending with CBI for registration of a regular case.

Till date, no FIR has been registered against the Yadavs and it has not only caused "some irremediable and irrecoverable damaged to the whole case, but also raised serious questions of credibility and integrity of our investigating agencies", the plea had said.

The CBI is duty bound to register a regular case as mandated by the provisions of law and also report the FIR to the jurisdictional magistrate as mandatory and provided by procedure law, it said.

Referring to the CBI's earlier status report, the fresh plea said it indicated that disproportionate assets were possessed not only by Yadav, Akhilesh and Prateek but also by Dimple.

On the basis of Income Tax Returns and reliable documents of the Yadav family members, the disproportionate assets were calculated at Rs 2.63 crore, it said.

The Supreme Court Monday issued a notice to CBI on a plea seeking direction to the probe agency that it place the investigation report in the disproportionate assets case against SP leader Mulayam Singh Yadav and his sons Akhilesh and Prateek.

The Supreme Court Monday issued a notice to CBI on a plea seeking direction to the probe agency that it place the investigation report in the disproportionate assets case against SP leader Mulayam Singh Yadav and his sons Akhilesh and Prateek. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta asked the CBI to file its response in two weeks on the status of the investigation against the Samajwadi Party patriarch and his sons. The bench was hearing a plea filed by Congress leader Vishwanath Chaturvedi seeking a direction to the probe agency to apprise the court of the status of the investigation. Chaturvedi in 2005 filed the PIL in the top court seeking directions to CBI to take appropriate action to prosecute Yadav, Akhilesh and his wife Dimple and Prateek under the Prevention of Corruption Act for allegedly acquiring assets more than the known sources of their income by misusing their powers. The apex court in its verdict of March 1, 2007 directed CBI "to enquire into allegations" and find out as to whether the plea with regard to disproportionate assets of the SP leaders was "correct or not". In 2012, the court dismissed the review petitions of Yadav and his sons against its verdict and directed CBI to go ahead with the probe against them in the disproportionate assets case. It allowed the review plea of Dimple and directed CBI to drop the inquiry against her saying that she was not holding any public office. The court had modified its March 1, 2007 order and asked CBI to file the status report before the court and not the government. Chaturvedi, in his fresh plea, said: "Despite the yawning gap between the complaint made/court's directions and the pendency of filing of a regular Case in this matter, an unusually long period as already escaped without any action being taken on the matter for 11 long years." The matter is still pending with CBI for registration of a regular case. Till date, no FIR has been registered against the Yadavs and it has not only caused "some irremediable and irrecoverable damaged to the whole case, but also raised serious questions of credibility and integrity of our investigating agencies", the plea had said. The CBI is duty bound to register a regular case as mandated by the provisions of law and also report the FIR to the jurisdictional magistrate as mandatory and provided by procedure law, it said. Referring to the CBI's earlier status report, the fresh plea said it indicated that disproportionate assets were possessed not only by Yadav, Akhilesh and Prateek but also by Dimple. On the basis of Income Tax Returns and reliable documents of the Yadav family members, the disproportionate assets were calculated at Rs 2.63 crore, it said.

Supreme Court notice to CBI in disproportionate assets case against former UP CMs Mulayam, Akhilesh

Extradition proceedings of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pnb-scam-uk-court-issues-arrest-warrant-against-nirav-modi-cbi-ed-officials-to-visit-london-soon-204148">fugitive businessman Nirav Modi</a> are underway, sources in Central Bureau of Investigation said on Tuesday.

"The extradition process of Nirav Modi is on, we are doing everything as per the law. It takes its own time. The process is legalistic from their side also," sources in Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told ANI.

"When we issue a Red Corner Notice (RCN), it is an (international) warrant against the person to whom it is issued," the sources said.

On Monday, a London court issued an arrest warrant against diamond merchant Nirav Modi, who is wanted in India for an alleged loan default case, according to the sources in the Enforcement Directorate.

The arrest warrant was issued by the Westminster Court, the sources added.

The development comes days after the fugitive was tracked down to a 33-storey Centre Point Apartment complex in London`s Theatre District.

The tower was an office complex and was converted into luxury residences with prices ranging from PS2 million to PS55 million all with superb views over the city of London.

Modi is believed to be living in a property worth PS8 million apartments in the tower, the rent for a similar apartment in the tower comes to approximately PS17,000 a month, stated the Daily Telegraph.

One of the prime accused in the PNB scam in India, Modi is the subject of an extradition request by India, along with an Interpol Red Corner Notice being issued against him. Modi is the prime accused in the Rs 13,000 crore PNB fraud, along with his uncle Mehul Choksi.

Choksi was granted citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda on January 15, 2018, while Modi is in London.

Both Modi and Choksi left India in January last year before the PNB scam came out in the public. The duo has not returned to India despite repeated summons from probe agencies and courts.

Extradition proceedings of fugitive businessman Nirav Modi are underway, sources in Central Bureau of Investigation said on Tuesday. "The extradition process of Nirav Modi is on, we are doing everything as per the law.

Extradition proceedings of fugitive businessman Nirav Modi are underway, sources in Central Bureau of Investigation said on Tuesday. "The extradition process of Nirav Modi is on, we are doing everything as per the law. It takes its own time. The process is legalistic from their side also," sources in Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told ANI. "When we issue a Red Corner Notice (RCN), it is an (international) warrant against the person to whom it is issued," the sources said. On Monday, a London court issued an arrest warrant against diamond merchant Nirav Modi, who is wanted in India for an alleged loan default case, according to the sources in the Enforcement Directorate. The arrest warrant was issued by the Westminster Court, the sources added. The development comes days after the fugitive was tracked down to a 33-storey Centre Point Apartment complex in London`s Theatre District. The tower was an office complex and was converted into luxury residences with prices ranging from PS2 million to PS55 million all with superb views over the city of London. Modi is believed to be living in a property worth PS8 million apartments in the tower, the rent for a similar apartment in the tower comes to approximately PS17,000 a month, stated the Daily Telegraph. One of the prime accused in the PNB scam in India, Modi is the subject of an extradition request by India, along with an Interpol Red Corner Notice being issued against him. Modi is the prime accused in the Rs 13,000 crore PNB fraud, along with his uncle Mehul Choksi. Choksi was granted citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda on January 15, 2018, while Modi is in London. Both Modi and Choksi left India in January last year before the PNB scam came out in the public. The duo has not returned to India despite repeated summons from probe agencies and courts.

Extradition proceedings against Nirav Modi underway: CBI sources

Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar who was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-questions-kolkata-commissioner-rajeev-kumar-in-shillong-196175">questioned by the CBI on Saturday </a>in connection with Saradha chit fund scam will again be examined by the investigating agency on Sunday.

Along with him former Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kunal Ghosh will also be questioned by the CBI in Shillong.

Kumar&nbsp;was questioned at a highly secured agency's office at Oakland area.

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Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar to be questioned by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) at the CBI office in Shillong tomorrow as well, in connection with Saradha chit fund scam.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1094194112788484096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Former Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kunal Ghosh to be questioned by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) at CBI office in Shillong tomorrow.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1094195535525732352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Supreme Court on Tuesday had directed the Kolkata Police chief to appear before the CBI and "faithfully" cooperate in the investigation of cases arising out of the Saradha chit fund scam, while making it clear that he will not be arrested.

The CBI had alleged in the Supreme Court that Kumar, who was leading the SIT probe into Saradha chit fund scam, tampered with the electronic evidence and handed over documents to the agency, some of which were "doctored".

The apex court directed him to appear before the investigating agency at a neutral place in Shillong "to avoid all unnecessary controversy".

CBI officials had gone to Kumar's residence in Kolkata to question him on January 3 but their attempt was thwarted by the police, following which Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee staged a three-day dharna.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar who was questioned by the CBI on Saturday in connection with Saradha chit fund scam will again be examined by the investigating agency on Sunday.

Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar who was questioned by the CBI on Saturday in connection with Saradha chit fund scam will again be examined by the investigating agency on Sunday. Along with him former Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kunal Ghosh will also be questioned by the CBI in Shillong. Kumar was questioned at a highly secured agency's office at Oakland area. Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar to be questioned by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) at the CBI office in Shillong tomorrow as well, in connection with Saradha chit fund scam. — ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2019 × Former Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kunal Ghosh to be questioned by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) at CBI office in Shillong tomorrow. — ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2019 × The Supreme Court on Tuesday had directed the Kolkata Police chief to appear before the CBI and "faithfully" cooperate in the investigation of cases arising out of the Saradha chit fund scam, while making it clear that he will not be arrested. The CBI had alleged in the Supreme Court that Kumar, who was leading the SIT probe into Saradha chit fund scam, tampered with the electronic evidence and handed over documents to the agency, some of which were "doctored". The apex court directed him to appear before the investigating agency at a neutral place in Shillong "to avoid all unnecessary controversy". CBI officials had gone to Kumar's residence in Kolkata to question him on January 3 but their attempt was thwarted by the police, following which Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee staged a three-day dharna. (With inputs from agencies)

CBI to question Kolkata Commissioner Rajeev Kumar again on Sunday

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/go-to-shillong-it-is-a-cool-place-cji-ranjan-gogoi-to-cbi-kolkata-police-commissioner-195460">Kolkata Police </a>on Friday conducted raids at two different places allegedly linked to former CBI Interim Director M Nageshwar Rao in Kolkata.

The raids were conducted in two offices of Angela Mercantiles Pvt. Ltd. -- one in the city and the other in adjoining Salt Lake -- as part of the city police's probe into an old complaint lodged at the Bowbazar Police Station, a senior officer said.

A team of around 30 police officers raided the two offices, allegedly linked to Rao's wife Mannem Sandhya, he said.

Additional CBI director M Nageshwar Rao denies link with company raided by Kolkata police.

Rao, in&nbsp;a press statement, ruled out any link to M/s Angela Mercantile Pvt Ltd.&nbsp;

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Former interim CBI chief M Nageshwar Rao issues a press statement, refuting any link with M/s Angela Mercantile Pvt Ltd which is being raided by Kolkata Police today. <a href="https://t.co/g9RfW3Yl4c">pic.twitter.com/g9RfW3Yl4c</a>
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Former Interim CBI chief Nageshwar Rao to ANI on raids taking place in Kolkata today: All that is happening, appears to be propaganda. 
In a statement dated, 30 Oct 2018, Rao had also refuted any link with M/s Angela Mercantile Pvt Ltd which is being raided by Kolkata Police today <a href="https://t.co/xHMxL2SUKJ">https://t.co/xHMxL2SUKJ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1093890277763440643?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The development comes&nbsp;days after an&nbsp;unprecedented tussle between the West Bengal government and the Centre erupted following the CBI's attempt&nbsp;to raid the residence of the Kolkata police officials on Sunday.

The officials, however, had to beat a hasty retreat from Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar's residence after its officials were not only prevented by guards from entering the premises but were also detained by Kolkata police.

Following this Mamata Banerjee sat on a sit-in against the CBI move.&nbsp;

The CBI will question&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-to-question-kolkata-police-commissioner-rajeev-kumar-on-february-9-in-shillong-195887">Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar&nbsp;</a>on February 9 in Shillong in connection with Saradha scam.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kolkata Police on Friday conducted raids at two different places allegedly linked to former CBI Interim Director M Nageshwar Rao in Kolkata. The raids were conducted in two offices of Angela Mercantiles Pvt.

Kolkata Police on Friday conducted raids at two different places allegedly linked to former CBI Interim Director M Nageshwar Rao in Kolkata. The raids were conducted in two offices of Angela Mercantiles Pvt. Ltd. -- one in the city and the other in adjoining Salt Lake -- as part of the city police's probe into an old complaint lodged at the Bowbazar Police Station, a senior officer said. A team of around 30 police officers raided the two offices, allegedly linked to Rao's wife Mannem Sandhya, he said. Additional CBI director M Nageshwar Rao denies link with company raided by Kolkata police. Rao, in a press statement, ruled out any link to M/s Angela Mercantile Pvt Ltd. Former interim CBI chief M Nageshwar Rao issues a press statement, refuting any link with M/s Angela Mercantile Pvt Ltd which is being raided by Kolkata Police today. pic.twitter.com/g9RfW3Yl4c — ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2019 × Former Interim CBI chief Nageshwar Rao to ANI on raids taking place in Kolkata today: All that is happening, appears to be propaganda. In a statement dated, 30 Oct 2018, Rao had also refuted any link with M/s Angela Mercantile Pvt Ltd which is being raided by Kolkata Police today https://t.co/xHMxL2SUKJ — ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2019 × The development comes days after an unprecedented tussle between the West Bengal government and the Centre erupted following the CBI's attempt to raid the residence of the Kolkata police officials on Sunday. The officials, however, had to beat a hasty retreat from Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar's residence after its officials were not only prevented by guards from entering the premises but were also detained by Kolkata police. Following this Mamata Banerjee sat on a sit-in against the CBI move. The CBI will question Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar on February 9 in Shillong in connection with Saradha scam. (With inputs from agencies)

Kolkata Police raid firms linked to ex-Interim CBI chief M Nageshwar Rao

Credibility Lost

At the heart of CBI’s attempted raid in West Bengal, lies the credibility of the central agency as an institution in India. Indian politicians have failed the institution miserably. CBI continues to derive its power from the Delhi Police Establishment Act of 1946. Today, entire Opposition is crying foul and accusing the present government of misusing CBI.&nbsp;

In 2012, the then minister of the state in charge of DOPT, Narayan Swami, went on to say that CBI has adequate and functional autonomy and there exists no proposal within the government to grant constitutional status to the investigative agency.

Both Congress and BJP, despite being in government for several years, neither initiated reform within the institution nor pushed for legislative debate to reconceive the legal architecture of the agency.&nbsp;

This inertia continues despite the fact that Guwahati high court declared CBI unconstitutional on November 7, 2013. The agency, thereafter, had to rush to the Supreme Court to take a stay order on the decision on November 9.

It proves that both Congress and BJP want the makeshift arrangement to stay alive and kicking because it allows them to use the CBI as a 'political weapon'.

This arrangement received further nourishment after the 1989 elections when the era of coalition dawned on Indian politics. The successive governments ended up using CBI to shore up political support by hectoring regional parties with cases of corruption.&nbsp;

It allowed them to survive with less numbers in Parliament. It is for this reason, even BJP, which enjoys majority in Lok Sabha, did not move an inch to appoint the Lokpal system which UPA 2 had to adopt under duress.

What makes the case of government even weaker is that the Supreme Court itself has passed relevant instructions to the CBI. As per the Supreme Court’s interim order given on July 16, 2018, both state police and CBI were supposed to work in tandem. More so, the court had directed CBI to approach high court in Calcutta in case they faced any obstruction.&nbsp;

Though Centre did give reminders to the state government on multiple occasion but the relief should have been sought from the relevant court as directed by the Apex Court.

In this case, it becomes very clear as to what direction the Apex Court may head to. For many, it may be a case of constitutional crisis and deteriorating relationship between the Centre and state, but CBI’s credibility and its pending reform lies at heart of the matter. 
 
Regional Chauvinism vs Corruption

There is no doubt that Rose valley and Sharda scams represent underbelly of India’s crony capitalism. It represents the way political parties organise funding for its day-to-day running, and election expenses.&nbsp;

BJP wants the matter to appear as a campaign against corrupt politicians, whereas TMC wants it to turn into an issue of regional pride and authoritarian assault by Centre against non-BJP state governments.

There is no denying the fact that most of the accused in the scam were closely associated with TMC. It explains TMC’s nervousness in the case and proves that case cannot be hushed forever.&nbsp;

Regional chauvinism has succeeded on multiple occasions in Indian politics. Be it the case of NT Rama Rao in Andhra Pradesh or Nitish Kumar during 2015 Bihar elections or Naveen Patnaik in Odisha.&nbsp;

BJP wants West Bengal to be the new harvest ground to make up for the losses in other states.

Mamata, on the other hand, is trying to turn the issue into Federal constitutionalism. She has rallied support from many regional parties on this issue. Which issue will succeed in run up to the Lok Sabha elections is a million-dollar question, but one thing is clear that Mamata’s role will not be limited to West Bengal in case electorate throws up a hung house.

Regional Parties

BJP has already mangled its equations with regional parties. It has been primarily a result of expansion of BJP’s footprint in far corners of India.&nbsp;

BJP has taken up issues which have pitted the party against small and regional parties.

It is going to pose a great challenge to the Saffron party in case it falls short of numbers. BJP will have to face a lot of political hectoring from smaller players in case it needs to shore up numbers for a simple majority in Lok Sabha.

The attempted raid not only brings many smaller players on one platform but will also test the issue of corruption in 2019 elections. It worked in 2014. However, same can’t be said today when the focus has turned to economy and jobs where it has failed miserably.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Credibility Lost At the heart of CBI’s attempted raid in West Bengal, lies the credibility of the central agency as an institution in India. Indian politicians have failed the institution miserably.

Credibility Lost At the heart of CBI’s attempted raid in West Bengal, lies the credibility of the central agency as an institution in India. Indian politicians have failed the institution miserably. CBI continues to derive its power from the Delhi Police Establishment Act of 1946. Today, entire Opposition is crying foul and accusing the present government of misusing CBI. In 2012, the then minister of the state in charge of DOPT, Narayan Swami, went on to say that CBI has adequate and functional autonomy and there exists no proposal within the government to grant constitutional status to the investigative agency. Both Congress and BJP, despite being in government for several years, neither initiated reform within the institution nor pushed for legislative debate to reconceive the legal architecture of the agency. This inertia continues despite the fact that Guwahati high court declared CBI unconstitutional on November 7, 2013. The agency, thereafter, had to rush to the Supreme Court to take a stay order on the decision on November 9. It proves that both Congress and BJP want the makeshift arrangement to stay alive and kicking because it allows them to use the CBI as a 'political weapon'. This arrangement received further nourishment after the 1989 elections when the era of coalition dawned on Indian politics. The successive governments ended up using CBI to shore up political support by hectoring regional parties with cases of corruption. It allowed them to survive with less numbers in Parliament. It is for this reason, even BJP, which enjoys majority in Lok Sabha, did not move an inch to appoint the Lokpal system which UPA 2 had to adopt under duress. What makes the case of government even weaker is that the Supreme Court itself has passed relevant instructions to the CBI. As per the Supreme Court’s interim order given on July 16, 2018, both state police and CBI were supposed to work in tandem. More so, the court had directed CBI to approach high court in Calcutta in case they faced any obstruction. Though Centre did give reminders to the state government on multiple occasion but the relief should have been sought from the relevant court as directed by the Apex Court. In this case, it becomes very clear as to what direction the Apex Court may head to. For many, it may be a case of constitutional crisis and deteriorating relationship between the Centre and state, but CBI’s credibility and its pending reform lies at heart of the matter. Regional Chauvinism vs Corruption There is no doubt that Rose valley and Sharda scams represent underbelly of India’s crony capitalism. It represents the way political parties organise funding for its day-to-day running, and election expenses. BJP wants the matter to appear as a campaign against corrupt politicians, whereas TMC wants it to turn into an issue of regional pride and authoritarian assault by Centre against non-BJP state governments. There is no denying the fact that most of the accused in the scam were closely associated with TMC. It explains TMC’s nervousness in the case and proves that case cannot be hushed forever. Regional chauvinism has succeeded on multiple occasions in Indian politics. Be it the case of NT Rama Rao in Andhra Pradesh or Nitish Kumar during 2015 Bihar elections or Naveen Patnaik in Odisha. BJP wants West Bengal to be the new harvest ground to make up for the losses in other states. Mamata, on the other hand, is trying to turn the issue into Federal constitutionalism. She has rallied support from many regional parties on this issue. Which issue will succeed in run up to the Lok Sabha elections is a million-dollar question, but one thing is clear that Mamata’s role will not be limited to West Bengal in case electorate throws up a hung house. Regional Parties BJP has already mangled its equations with regional parties. It has been primarily a result of expansion of BJP’s footprint in far corners of India. BJP has taken up issues which have pitted the party against small and regional parties. It is going to pose a great challenge to the Saffron party in case it falls short of numbers. BJP will have to face a lot of political hectoring from smaller players in case it needs to shore up numbers for a simple majority in Lok Sabha. The attempted raid not only brings many smaller players on one platform but will also test the issue of corruption in 2019 elections. It worked in 2014. However, same can’t be said today when the focus has turned to economy and jobs where it has failed miserably. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

West Bengal fiasco: Credibility of CBI is the issue and not Mamata vs Modi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-russia-suspending-missile-treaty-after-us-move-agencies-194569">Following US move, Putin says Russia is pulling out of nuclear missile treaty</a>

President Vladimir Putin on Saturday said Russia was suspending its participation in a key Cold War-era missile treaty in a mirror response to a US move the day before.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rishi-kumar-shukla-appointed-new-cbi-chief-officials-194608">Rishi Kumar Shukla appointed new CBI chief</a>

Rishi Kumar Shukla has been appointed the new director of the Central Bureau of Investigation, PTI quoted officials as saying Saturday.&nbsp;

Shukla is a 1983-batch Indian Police Service officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-to-mamata-in-bengal-there-is-a-trinamool-tolabaji-hafta-tax-all-over-the-state-194622">Modi to Mamata in Bengal: Trinamool Tolabaji (</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-to-mamata-in-bengal-there-is-a-trinamool-tolabaji-hafta-tax-all-over-the-state-194622">hafta</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-to-mamata-in-bengal-there-is-a-trinamool-tolabaji-hafta-tax-all-over-the-state-194622">) Tax all over the state</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government of foisting a tolabaji (hafta) culture all over the state.&nbsp;

“Trinamool Tolabaji Tax is prevalent in the state. Every child in West Bengal is aware of this TTT. West Bengal is the only state where you have to pay tax for education. No one opposed this culture of syndicate and TTT, which is why the Trinamool Congress got a free run," Modi said. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-begins-serious-work-on-uk-staying-in-eu-customs-union-the-independent-194575">British government begins 'serious work' on UK staying in EU customs union: Report</a>

British officials have begun "serious work" on the UK staying in a permanent EU customs union as a way to rescue the Brexit deal, the Independent newspaper reported on Friday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-smriti-mandhana-becomes-no1-odi-batswoman-194600">India's Smriti Mandhana becomes No. 1 ODI batswoman</a>

Smriti Mandhana has moved up three spots to attain the number one rank in the updated ICC ODI batting rankings, released on Saturday.

After scoring her fourth ODI century and an unbeaten 90 in the three-match series against New Zealand, Mandhana now sits above the Australians Ellyse Perry and Meg Lanning.&nbsp;

Following US move, Putin says Russia is pulling out of nuclear missile treaty President Vladimir Putin on Saturday said Russia was suspending its participation in a key Cold War-era missile treaty in a mirror response to a US move the day before.

Following US move, Putin says Russia is pulling out of nuclear missile treaty President Vladimir Putin on Saturday said Russia was suspending its participation in a key Cold War-era missile treaty in a mirror response to a US move the day before. Rishi Kumar Shukla appointed new CBI chief Rishi Kumar Shukla has been appointed the new director of the Central Bureau of Investigation, PTI quoted officials as saying Saturday. Shukla is a 1983-batch Indian Police Service officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre. Modi to Mamata in Bengal: Trinamool Tolabaji (hafta) Tax all over the state Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government of foisting a tolabaji (hafta) culture all over the state. “Trinamool Tolabaji Tax is prevalent in the state. Every child in West Bengal is aware of this TTT. West Bengal is the only state where you have to pay tax for education. No one opposed this culture of syndicate and TTT, which is why the Trinamool Congress got a free run," Modi said. British government begins 'serious work' on UK staying in EU customs union: Report British officials have begun "serious work" on the UK staying in a permanent EU customs union as a way to rescue the Brexit deal, the Independent newspaper reported on Friday. India's Smriti Mandhana becomes No. 1 ODI batswoman Smriti Mandhana has moved up three spots to attain the number one rank in the updated ICC ODI batting rankings, released on Saturday. After scoring her fourth ODI century and an unbeaten 90 in the three-match series against New Zealand, Mandhana now sits above the Australians Ellyse Perry and Meg Lanning.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Former <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/alok-verma-quits-as-cbi-chief-says-always-stood-for-integrity-of-the-institution-189659">CBI director Alok Verma</a>, who defied a government order asking him to join as chief of Fire Services on Thursday, has told the home ministry that he superannuated from the post of CBI director on January 10, officials said.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had directed Verma to take charge as director general of the Fire Services, Civil Defence and Home Guards on Thursday.

Verma immediately responded to the letter from MHA dated January 30, reiterating his position that he had already retired from the service on July 31, 2017 and was serving the tenure of director CBI.

In his response to R S Vaidya, Deputy Secretary in the home ministry, Verma said his date of birth from the official records is July 14, 1957 which implies that date of superannuation was July 31, 2017.

"The undersigned has already crossed the age of 61 years and continued to serve even after his superannuation date as Director, CBI which is a tenure post for a period of two years," Verma wrote in a letter accessed by PTI.

He said since he ceased to be director of CBI from the evening of January 10, 2019 and has already crossed 60 years, he stands superannuated from the post of Director, CBI with effect from the evening of January 10, 2019.

Verma was removed following a split decision of a high- level committee comprising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Mallikarjuna Kharge and Justice A K Sikri, nominated by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi.&nbsp;

Kharge has given a strong dissent note against the decision of the committee to oust Verma from the post.

Former CBI director Alok Verma, who defied a government order asking him to join as chief of Fire Services on Thursday, has told the home ministry that he superannuated from the post of CBI director on January 10, officials said.

Former CBI director Alok Verma, who defied a government order asking him to join as chief of Fire Services on Thursday, has told the home ministry that he superannuated from the post of CBI director on January 10, officials said. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had directed Verma to take charge as director general of the Fire Services, Civil Defence and Home Guards on Thursday. Verma immediately responded to the letter from MHA dated January 30, reiterating his position that he had already retired from the service on July 31, 2017 and was serving the tenure of director CBI. In his response to R S Vaidya, Deputy Secretary in the home ministry, Verma said his date of birth from the official records is July 14, 1957 which implies that date of superannuation was July 31, 2017. "The undersigned has already crossed the age of 61 years and continued to serve even after his superannuation date as Director, CBI which is a tenure post for a period of two years," Verma wrote in a letter accessed by PTI. He said since he ceased to be director of CBI from the evening of January 10, 2019 and has already crossed 60 years, he stands superannuated from the post of Director, CBI with effect from the evening of January 10, 2019. Verma was removed following a split decision of a high- level committee comprising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Mallikarjuna Kharge and Justice A K Sikri, nominated by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi. Kharge has given a strong dissent note against the decision of the committee to oust Verma from the post.

Alok Verma reiterates stand; tells MHA he superannuated on January 10

The next meeting of the selection committee, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to pick the new CBI director will take place on Friday, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, who is also member of the panel, said Wednesday.&nbsp;

The last meeting of the panel took place on January 24 but it remained "inconclusive".&nbsp;

"The next meeting of the panel on selection of the CBI chief will take place on February 1 at around 6 PM," Kharge told reporters.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi heads the three-member panel with Kharge and Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi as its members.&nbsp;

In the last meeting, Kharge had sought details of dossiers of all the eligible officers for the post.&nbsp;

The next meeting of the selection committee, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to pick the new CBI director will take place on Friday, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, who is also member of the panel, said Wednesday.

The next meeting of the selection committee, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to pick the new CBI director will take place on Friday, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, who is also member of the panel, said Wednesday. The last meeting of the panel took place on January 24 but it remained "inconclusive". "The next meeting of the panel on selection of the CBI chief will take place on February 1 at around 6 PM," Kharge told reporters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi heads the three-member panel with Kharge and Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi as its members. In the last meeting, Kharge had sought details of dossiers of all the eligible officers for the post.

Next meeting of PM-led panel to pick new CBI chief on Friday: Mallikarjun Kharge

The Centre on Friday authorised select security and intelligence agencies for purposes of interception, monitoring and decryption of any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer resource.

The agencies empowered by the government in accordance with the Information Technology Act, 2000, include the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Narcotics Control Bureau (NIB), Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), National Investigation Agency (NIA), Cabinet Secretariat (RAW) and the Commissioner of Police, Delhi.

"In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 69 of the Information Technology Act, 2000 (21 of 2000) read with rule 4 of the Information Technology ( Procedure and Safeguards for Interception, Monitoring and Decryption of Information) Rules, 2009, the Competent Authority hereby authorises Security and Intelligence Agencies for the purposes of interception, monitoring and decryption of any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer resource under the said Act," read the notice issued by Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba.

Furthermore, the Directorate of Signal Intelligence has been given authority for service areas of Jammu and Kashmir, North-East and Assam.

The direction from the Ministry of Home Affairs comes as a follow up to a 2009 notification, wherein the then UPA government had stated that no person shall carry out the interception, monitoring, or decryption of any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer resource under sub-section (2) of section 69 of the Information Technology Act, 2000, except by an order issued by the competent authority.

"Such order may be issued by an officer, not below the rank of the Joint Secretary to the Government of India, who has been duly authorised by the competent authority," the 2009 notice read.

As per this earlier notification, in case of remote areas where obtaining prior directions for interception is not feasible, the guidelines provided for monitoring of information generated, transmitted or received in any computer resource to be done with prior approval of the head or second senior-most officer of the security and law enforcement agency at the central level and the officer authorised on this behalf, not below the rank of the Inspector General of Police or an officer of equivalent rank at the state or union territory level.

However, the authority supervising surveillance in such cases was required to inform in writing to the competent authority about the emergency deception of data within three working days and obtain approval within seven working days.

"If the approval of the competent authority is not obtained within the said period of seven working days, such interception or monitoring shall cease and information shall not be intercepted thereafter without prior approval," the document had stated.&nbsp;

The Centre on Friday authorised select security and intelligence agencies for purposes of interception, monitoring and decryption of any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer resource.

The Centre on Friday authorised select security and intelligence agencies for purposes of interception, monitoring and decryption of any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer resource. The agencies empowered by the government in accordance with the Information Technology Act, 2000, include the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Narcotics Control Bureau (NIB), Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), National Investigation Agency (NIA), Cabinet Secretariat (RAW) and the Commissioner of Police, Delhi. "In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 69 of the Information Technology Act, 2000 (21 of 2000) read with rule 4 of the Information Technology ( Procedure and Safeguards for Interception, Monitoring and Decryption of Information) Rules, 2009, the Competent Authority hereby authorises Security and Intelligence Agencies for the purposes of interception, monitoring and decryption of any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer resource under the said Act," read the notice issued by Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba. Furthermore, the Directorate of Signal Intelligence has been given authority for service areas of Jammu and Kashmir, North-East and Assam. The direction from the Ministry of Home Affairs comes as a follow up to a 2009 notification, wherein the then UPA government had stated that no person shall carry out the interception, monitoring, or decryption of any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer resource under sub-section (2) of section 69 of the Information Technology Act, 2000, except by an order issued by the competent authority. "Such order may be issued by an officer, not below the rank of the Joint Secretary to the Government of India, who has been duly authorised by the competent authority," the 2009 notice read. As per this earlier notification, in case of remote areas where obtaining prior directions for interception is not feasible, the guidelines provided for monitoring of information generated, transmitted or received in any computer resource to be done with prior approval of the head or second senior-most officer of the security and law enforcement agency at the central level and the officer authorised on this behalf, not below the rank of the Inspector General of Police or an officer of equivalent rank at the state or union territory level. However, the authority supervising surveillance in such cases was required to inform in writing to the competent authority about the emergency deception of data within three working days and obtain approval within seven working days. "If the approval of the competent authority is not obtained within the said period of seven working days, such interception or monitoring shall cease and information shall not be intercepted thereafter without prior approval," the document had stated.

Government empowers security, intelligence agencies for mass surveillance

A special CBI court in Mumbai is likely to pronounce today the verdict in the sensational Sohrabuddin Shaikh-Tulsiram Prajapati <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sohrabuddin-case-high-court-upholds-discharge-of-ex-gujarat-ats-chief-vanzara-4-others-164857">alleged fake encounter case of 2005</a> in which 22 persons, most of them policemen, are on trial.

The case <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sohrabuddin-case-claims-yet-another-judge-says-rahul-gandhi-34210">has attracted much attention as BJP chief Amit Shah</a>, who was Minister of State for Home in Gujarat at the time of the incidents, was one of the accused before being discharged in 2014. During the trial, as many as 92 prosecution witnesses turned hostile.

After the final arguments were wrapped up earlier this month, Special Judge for CBI cases S J Sharma had said he will pronounce the verdict on December 21.

Most of the accused are junior-level police officials from Gujarat and Rajasthan.

The court earlier discharged, for want of evidence, 16 of the 38 persons charge-sheeted by the CBI. These included Amit Shah, the then Rajasthan home minister Gulabchand Kataria, former Gujarat police chief P C Pande and former senior Gujarat police officer D G Vanzara.

According to the CBI, Shaikh, an alleged gangster with terror links, his wife Kausar Bi and his aide Prajapati were abducted by Gujarat police from a bus when they were on their way to Sangli in Maharashtra from Hyderabad on the night of November 22 and 23, 2005.

Shaikh was killed in an alleged fake encounter on November 26, 2005 near Ahmedabad. His wife was killed three days later and her body was disposed off, the CBI said.

A year later, on December 27, 2006, Prajapati was also shot dead by Gujarat and Rajasthan police in an alleged fake encounter near Chapri on Gujarat-Rajasthan border.

The case was initially probed by the Gujarat CID before the CBI took over in 2010. The Supreme Court in 2013 directed that the trial to&nbsp;be shifted to Mumbai from Gujarat on the central agency's request to ensure a fair trial.

The prosecution examined 210 witnesses, of which 92 turned hostile.

Even as the trial has wound down to a close, two prosecution witnesses applied to the court Wednesday that they be re-examined.

One of them, Azam Khan, an aide of Shaikh, claimed in his plea that accused Abdul Rehman, a former police inspector who had allegedly fired on Shaikh, threatened Khan that if he did not depose as told, he would be framed up in false cases.

His wife was also threatened, Khan claimed.

Another witness, Mahendra Zala, a petrol pump owner, has alleged that the prosecution did not furnish to the court his statement recorded before a magistrate.

The court will decide both pleas Friday.

A special CBI court in Mumbai is likely to pronounce today the verdict in the sensational Sohrabuddin Shaikh-Tulsiram Prajapati alleged fake encounter case of 2005 in which 22 persons, most of them policemen, are on trial.

A special CBI court in Mumbai is likely to pronounce today the verdict in the sensational Sohrabuddin Shaikh-Tulsiram Prajapati alleged fake encounter case of 2005 in which 22 persons, most of them policemen, are on trial. The case has attracted much attention as BJP chief Amit Shah, who was Minister of State for Home in Gujarat at the time of the incidents, was one of the accused before being discharged in 2014. During the trial, as many as 92 prosecution witnesses turned hostile. After the final arguments were wrapped up earlier this month, Special Judge for CBI cases S J Sharma had said he will pronounce the verdict on December 21. Most of the accused are junior-level police officials from Gujarat and Rajasthan. The court earlier discharged, for want of evidence, 16 of the 38 persons charge-sheeted by the CBI. These included Amit Shah, the then Rajasthan home minister Gulabchand Kataria, former Gujarat police chief P C Pande and former senior Gujarat police officer D G Vanzara. According to the CBI, Shaikh, an alleged gangster with terror links, his wife Kausar Bi and his aide Prajapati were abducted by Gujarat police from a bus when they were on their way to Sangli in Maharashtra from Hyderabad on the night of November 22 and 23, 2005. Shaikh was killed in an alleged fake encounter on November 26, 2005 near Ahmedabad. His wife was killed three days later and her body was disposed off, the CBI said. A year later, on December 27, 2006, Prajapati was also shot dead by Gujarat and Rajasthan police in an alleged fake encounter near Chapri on Gujarat-Rajasthan border. The case was initially probed by the Gujarat CID before the CBI took over in 2010. The Supreme Court in 2013 directed that the trial to be shifted to Mumbai from Gujarat on the central agency's request to ensure a fair trial. The prosecution examined 210 witnesses, of which 92 turned hostile. Even as the trial has wound down to a close, two prosecution witnesses applied to the court Wednesday that they be re-examined. One of them, Azam Khan, an aide of Shaikh, claimed in his plea that accused Abdul Rehman, a former police inspector who had allegedly fired on Shaikh, threatened Khan that if he did not depose as told, he would be framed up in false cases. His wife was also threatened, Khan claimed. Another witness, Mahendra Zala, a petrol pump owner, has alleged that the prosecution did not furnish to the court his statement recorded before a magistrate. The court will decide both pleas Friday.

Sohrabuddin Shaikh encounter: CBI court likely to pronounce verdict today

The interim chief of Central Bureau Investigation (CBI) M Nageswara Rao was promoted to the rank of an Additional Director by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet.

Rao was appointed as interim chief of the CBI after the government stepped in between the fight of CBI Director Alok Verma and Special Director Rakesh Asthana that took place at midnight of October 24.

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M Nageswara Rao, the interim CBI Director, has been promoted to the rank of Additional Director by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. <a href="https://t.co/ixVJn0iOoX">pic.twitter.com/ixVJn0iOoX</a>
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After his appointment, the Centre had sent both Verma and Asthana on a leave with immediate effect.

While giving him certain powers as interim chief of the CBI, the Supreme Court had asked him not to formulate any key policy decisions until it hears the petition regarding the feud between Verma and Asthana.

The interim chief of Central Bureau Investigation (CBI) M Nageswara Rao was promoted to the rank of an Additional Director by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet.

The interim chief of Central Bureau Investigation (CBI) M Nageswara Rao was promoted to the rank of an Additional Director by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. Rao was appointed as interim chief of the CBI after the government stepped in between the fight of CBI Director Alok Verma and Special Director Rakesh Asthana that took place at midnight of October 24. M Nageswara Rao, the interim CBI Director, has been promoted to the rank of Additional Director by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. pic.twitter.com/ixVJn0iOoX — ANI (@ANI) December 18, 2018 × After his appointment, the Centre had sent both Verma and Asthana on a leave with immediate effect. While giving him certain powers as interim chief of the CBI, the Supreme Court had asked him not to formulate any key policy decisions until it hears the petition regarding the feud between Verma and Asthana.

Interim CBI chief M Nageswara Rao elevated to Additional Director rank

Extradited alleged middleman in the Rs 3600 crore AgustaWestland chopper deal, Christian Michel will be produced before a Delhi Court on Monday after the end of his five-day Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody.

Michel was sent to five days CBI custody on December 5. He arrived in the national capital in the wee hours of the same day after being extradited from Dubai, was produced before a special CBI court here.

Special Public Prosecutor Advocate DP Singh appeared for the CBI in the special court. The CBI counsel had asked for 14 days custody of Michel stating that they needed his custody to confront him with some important documents. Michel`s counsel Aljo K Joseph, however, opposed it.

Michel had moved a bail plea. The court, however, kept it pending.

The Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VIP helicopter deal, finalised during the previous government of Manmohan Singh, had got mired in allegations of kickbacks. The 54-year-old Michel is an accused in the case along with some others including former Air Chief SP Tyagi.

According to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) charge sheet filed in a court here two years back, Michel had received kickbacks to the tune of 30 million Euros from AgustaWestland for the deal involving a purchase of 12 VIP helicopters. The deal, signed in 2007, was scrapped in 2013 following the bribery allegations.&nbsp;

Extradited alleged middleman in the Rs 3600 crore AgustaWestland chopper deal, Christian Michel will be produced before a Delhi Court on Monday after the end of his five-day Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody.

Extradited alleged middleman in the Rs 3600 crore AgustaWestland chopper deal, Christian Michel will be produced before a Delhi Court on Monday after the end of his five-day Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody. Michel was sent to five days CBI custody on December 5. He arrived in the national capital in the wee hours of the same day after being extradited from Dubai, was produced before a special CBI court here. Special Public Prosecutor Advocate DP Singh appeared for the CBI in the special court. The CBI counsel had asked for 14 days custody of Michel stating that they needed his custody to confront him with some important documents. Michel`s counsel Aljo K Joseph, however, opposed it. Michel had moved a bail plea. The court, however, kept it pending. The Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VIP helicopter deal, finalised during the previous government of Manmohan Singh, had got mired in allegations of kickbacks. The 54-year-old Michel is an accused in the case along with some others including former Air Chief SP Tyagi. According to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) charge sheet filed in a court here two years back, Michel had received kickbacks to the tune of 30 million Euros from AgustaWestland for the deal involving a purchase of 12 VIP helicopters. The deal, signed in 2007, was scrapped in 2013 following the bribery allegations.

VVIP chopper case: Christian Michel to be produced before Delhi Court 

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

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

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

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

The Central Bureau of Investigation registered cases Wednesday against the principal and others of the National Defence Academy.&nbsp;

ANI reported that the cases were registered against allegations of irregularities in the selection and appointment of teaching faculty at the NDA.&nbsp;

Cases were registered against a professor of political science, assistant professors of chemistry and mathematics, and the HOD of the chemistry department.&nbsp;

ANI reported that the CBI is conducting raids on the premises of the National Defence Academy, including the offices and homes of the accused.&nbsp;

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CBI registers case against Principal of National Defence Academy in Pune's Khadakwasla, a Professor of Political Science, Asst Professors of Chemistry, Mathematics, HOD of Chemistry dept & others on allegations of irregularities in selection/appointment of teaching faculty in NDA
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The National Defence Academy is located in Pune's Khadakwasla.&nbsp;

The Central Bureau of Investigation registered cases Wednesday against the principal and others of the National Defence Academy. the cases were registered against allegations of irregularities in the selection and appointment of teaching faculty at the NDA

The Central Bureau of Investigation registered cases Wednesday against the principal and others of the National Defence Academy. ANI reported that the cases were registered against allegations of irregularities in the selection and appointment of teaching faculty at the NDA. Cases were registered against a professor of political science, assistant professors of chemistry and mathematics, and the HOD of the chemistry department. ANI reported that the CBI is conducting raids on the premises of the National Defence Academy, including the offices and homes of the accused. CBI registers case against Principal of National Defence Academy in Pune's Khadakwasla, a Professor of Political Science, Asst Professors of Chemistry, Mathematics, HOD of Chemistry dept & others on allegations of irregularities in selection/appointment of teaching faculty in NDA — ANI (@ANI) June 6, 2018 × Searches are being conducted by CBI at the premises, including office/residences of the accused in Pune over allegations of irregularities in selection/appointment of teaching faculty in National Defence Academy (NDA) — ANI (@ANI) June 6, 2018 × The National Defence Academy is located in Pune's Khadakwasla.

CBI conducts raids on National Defence Academy

AirAsia Group Bhd said the company and its chief executive had not received notice or a summons to appear before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) over allegations that the airline broke rules to obtain a flying licence in the country.

"We wish to state categorically that neither AirAsia Group nor Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, in his personal capacity, has received any such notice as of today," the company said in a statement on Tuesday.

Media reported earlier that Fernandes had been asked to appear before the CBI on June 6.

The CBI last month accused the airline, some of its employees and third parties of violating foreign direct investment rules while obtaining its licence to fly, and of bribing government officials in an attempt to get regulations relaxed to allow AirAsia India to fly international routes.

A CBI source reiterated to Reuters on Wednesday that Fernandes had been summoned to appear before investigators but did not clarify if that summons had been delivered. The source also said that police were likely to give more details on the matter later in the day.

Representatives for AirAsia on Wednesday did not respond to emailed requests to clarify whether there had been any contact from the CBI.

AirAsia's statement on Tuesday said that "if and when" the company receives a notice from CBI through official channels, it will act in accordance with Malaysian laws and cooperate fully with Indian authorities.

The CBI has said it has searched five AirAsia locations in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore, seizing certain documents.

The Malaysian low-cost carrier launched domestic flight operations in India in 2014 with local joint venture partner Tata Sons.

CBI's allegations come at a time when Fernandes is under fire for supporting Malaysia's former prime minister in recent general elections and is being investigated over the cancellation of flights that could have transported voters home.

"We wish to state categorically that neither AirAsia Group nor Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, in his personal capacity, has received any such notice as of today," the company said in a statement on Tuesday.

AirAsia Group Bhd said the company and its chief executive had not received notice or a summons to appear before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) over allegations that the airline broke rules to obtain a flying licence in the country. "We wish to state categorically that neither AirAsia Group nor Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, in his personal capacity, has received any such notice as of today," the company said in a statement on Tuesday. Media reported earlier that Fernandes had been asked to appear before the CBI on June 6. The CBI last month accused the airline, some of its employees and third parties of violating foreign direct investment rules while obtaining its licence to fly, and of bribing government officials in an attempt to get regulations relaxed to allow AirAsia India to fly international routes. A CBI source reiterated to Reuters on Wednesday that Fernandes had been summoned to appear before investigators but did not clarify if that summons had been delivered. The source also said that police were likely to give more details on the matter later in the day. Representatives for AirAsia on Wednesday did not respond to emailed requests to clarify whether there had been any contact from the CBI. AirAsia's statement on Tuesday said that "if and when" the company receives a notice from CBI through official channels, it will act in accordance with Malaysian laws and cooperate fully with Indian authorities. The CBI has said it has searched five AirAsia locations in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore, seizing certain documents. The Malaysian low-cost carrier launched domestic flight operations in India in 2014 with local joint venture partner Tata Sons. CBI's allegations come at a time when Fernandes is under fire for supporting Malaysia's former prime minister in recent general elections and is being investigated over the cancellation of flights that could have transported voters home.

Neither we nor the CEO received any notice from CBI: AirAsia

RJD president Lalu Prasad Yadav, who is serving a prison sentence in the multi-crore fodder scam, has been granted a five-day parole on Wednesday to attend son Tej Pratap Yadav's wedding. He is currently admitted in Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences in Ranchi.

Lalu will be flown to Patna this evening.&nbsp;

Lalu, who has been convicted in three fodder scam cases by a special CBI court in Ranchi, is currently undergoing treatment at RIMS hospital in the Jharkhand capital.

Meanwhile, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday submitted documents of around 20,000 pages in Delhi's Patiala House court in connection with the IRCTC hotel scam case in which Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, Tejashwi Yadav and 11 others are accused.&nbsp;

The case pertains to alleged irregularities in allotting a contract to a private company for the maintenance of IRCTC hotels in Ranchi and Puri when Lalu was the railway minister from 2004 to 2009.&nbsp;

In July 2017, the CBI registered a corruption case against Lalu, Rabri, Tejashwi and others in the case.&nbsp;

The case pertains to alleged irregularities in allotting a contract to a private company for the maintenance of IRCTC hotels in Ranchi and Puri when Lalu was the railway minister

RJD president Lalu Prasad Yadav, who is serving a prison sentence in the multi-crore fodder scam, has been granted a five-day parole on Wednesday to attend son Tej Pratap Yadav's wedding. He is currently admitted in Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences in Ranchi. Lalu will be flown to Patna this evening. Lalu, who has been convicted in three fodder scam cases by a special CBI court in Ranchi, is currently undergoing treatment at RIMS hospital in the Jharkhand capital. Meanwhile, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday submitted documents of around 20,000 pages in Delhi's Patiala House court in connection with the IRCTC hotel scam case in which Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, Tejashwi Yadav and 11 others are accused. The case pertains to alleged irregularities in allotting a contract to a private company for the maintenance of IRCTC hotels in Ranchi and Puri when Lalu was the railway minister from 2004 to 2009. In July 2017, the CBI registered a corruption case against Lalu, Rabri, Tejashwi and others in the case.

Lalu granted five-day parole to attend son's wedding

A UK court on Friday admitted the bulk of the evidence submitted by the CBI against Vijay Mallya in connection with his ongoing extradition trial, giving a boost to India's efforts to bring back the embattled liquor baron to face charges of fraud and money laundering amounting to around Rs 9,000 crore.

The 62-year-old flambouyant businessman, who appeared in the Westminister Magistrate's Court here, had his 650,000 pounds bail extended until the next date of hearing on July 11.

When the court reconvenes, oral submissions will be made on closing arguments to be submitted in writing to Judge Emma Arbuthnot over the next two months.&nbsp;

The judge is then expected to indicate plans for a verdict in the case at the next hearing.

During the hearing, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) got a boost as Judge Arbuthnot confirmed that the bulk of the evidence submitted by it will be admissible.

Today's hearing comes days after the Indian government's High Court appeal against a previous Westminster Magistrates' Court extradition ruling that had been denied.

UK-based Sanjeev Kumar Chawla, wanted in India as a key accused in the cricket match-fixing scandal involving former South African captain Hanse Cronje in 2000, had been discharged in October last year on human rights grounds over severe conditions in Delhi's Tihar Jail, where the accused was to be held on being extradited.

District Judge Rebecca Crane had based her verdict to discharge Chawla largely upon the testimony of Dr Alan Mitchell, former head of healthcare at the Scottish Prison Service and an elected member of the European Council's Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT).

Mallya's defence team has previously deposed the same prisons expert in his extradition case, who told Judge Arbuthnot during the course of the trial that conditions in all Indian jails are "far from satisfactory".

During the last hearing in the case in March, CPS barrister Mark Summers reiterated that the Indian government had provided further clarifications related to an availability of natural light and medical assistance at Barrack 12 of Mumbai Central Prison on Arthur Road, where Mallya is to be held if he is extradited from the UK.

The trial, which opened at the London court on December 4 last year, is aimed at laying out a prima facie case of fraud against Mallya, who has been based in the UK since he left India in March 2016.

It also seeks to prove there are no "bars to extradition" and that the tycoon is assured a fair trial in India over his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines' alleged default of over Rs 9,000 crore in loans from a consortium of Indian banks.

The CPS, representing the Indian government, has argued that the evidence they have presented establishes "dishonesty" on the part of the businessman and that there are no bars to him being extradited from the UK to face Indian courts.

Mallya's defence team has deposed a series of expert witnesses to claim he had no "fraudulent" intentions and that he is unlikely to get a fair trial in India.

If the judge rules in favour of the Indian government, the UK home secretary will have two months to sign Mallya's extradition order.

However, both sides will have the chance to appeal to higher courts in the UK against the Magistrates' Court verdict.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/my-democratic-right-to-vote-in-karnataka-elections-says-vijay-mallya-133253">'My democratic right to vote in Karnataka elections,' says Vijay Mallya</a>

The 62-year-old flambouyant businessman, who appeared in the Westminister Magistrate's Court here, had his 650,000 pounds bail extended until the next date of hearing on July 11

A UK court on Friday admitted the bulk of the evidence submitted by the CBI against Vijay Mallya in connection with his ongoing extradition trial, giving a boost to India's efforts to bring back the embattled liquor baron to face charges of fraud and money laundering amounting to around Rs 9,000 crore. The 62-year-old flambouyant businessman, who appeared in the Westminister Magistrate's Court here, had his 650,000 pounds bail extended until the next date of hearing on July 11. When the court reconvenes, oral submissions will be made on closing arguments to be submitted in writing to Judge Emma Arbuthnot over the next two months. The judge is then expected to indicate plans for a verdict in the case at the next hearing. During the hearing, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) got a boost as Judge Arbuthnot confirmed that the bulk of the evidence submitted by it will be admissible. Today's hearing comes days after the Indian government's High Court appeal against a previous Westminster Magistrates' Court extradition ruling that had been denied. UK-based Sanjeev Kumar Chawla, wanted in India as a key accused in the cricket match-fixing scandal involving former South African captain Hanse Cronje in 2000, had been discharged in October last year on human rights grounds over severe conditions in Delhi's Tihar Jail, where the accused was to be held on being extradited. District Judge Rebecca Crane had based her verdict to discharge Chawla largely upon the testimony of Dr Alan Mitchell, former head of healthcare at the Scottish Prison Service and an elected member of the European Council's Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT). Mallya's defence team has previously deposed the same prisons expert in his extradition case, who told Judge Arbuthnot during the course of the trial that conditions in all Indian jails are "far from satisfactory". During the last hearing in the case in March, CPS barrister Mark Summers reiterated that the Indian government had provided further clarifications related to an availability of natural light and medical assistance at Barrack 12 of Mumbai Central Prison on Arthur Road, where Mallya is to be held if he is extradited from the UK. The trial, which opened at the London court on December 4 last year, is aimed at laying out a prima facie case of fraud against Mallya, who has been based in the UK since he left India in March 2016. It also seeks to prove there are no "bars to extradition" and that the tycoon is assured a fair trial in India over his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines' alleged default of over Rs 9,000 crore in loans from a consortium of Indian banks. The CPS, representing the Indian government, has argued that the evidence they have presented establishes "dishonesty" on the part of the businessman and that there are no bars to him being extradited from the UK to face Indian courts. Mallya's defence team has deposed a series of expert witnesses to claim he had no "fraudulent" intentions and that he is unlikely to get a fair trial in India. If the judge rules in favour of the Indian government, the UK home secretary will have two months to sign Mallya's extradition order. However, both sides will have the chance to appeal to higher courts in the UK against the Magistrates' Court verdict. Also read: 'My democratic right to vote in Karnataka elections,' says Vijay Mallya

Mallya case: CBI gets boost on evidence admissibility, next hearing on July 11

The Unnao gang rape case has been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation after the intervention of the Prime Minister's Office, ANI reported Thursday quoting sources.&nbsp;

An Uttar Pradesh BJP MLA is the main accused in the gang rape case.&nbsp;

Kuldeep Singh Sengar has been booked by UP Police on various charges including rape, kidnapping and criminal intimidation in connection with the alleged rape of a 17-year-old girl.&nbsp;

The police have however refused to arrest him, saying the CBI will do it.&nbsp;

The case came to light after the girl and her family tried to commit suicide outside UP Chier Minister Yogi Adityanath's residence recently.&nbsp;

A few days later the girl's father died, reportedly in police custody.&nbsp;

It was after that that Adityanath said his government would take action, and that nobody — no matter how powerful — would be spared.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Police have booked BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar for rape and kidnapping but have not arrested him, saying the CBI will do it

The Unnao gang rape case has been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation after the intervention of the Prime Minister's Office, ANI reported Thursday quoting sources. An Uttar Pradesh BJP MLA is the main accused in the gang rape case. Kuldeep Singh Sengar has been booked by UP Police on various charges including rape, kidnapping and criminal intimidation in connection with the alleged rape of a 17-year-old girl. The police have however refused to arrest him, saying the CBI will do it. The case came to light after the girl and her family tried to commit suicide outside UP Chier Minister Yogi Adityanath's residence recently. A few days later the girl's father died, reportedly in police custody. It was after that that Adityanath said his government would take action, and that nobody — no matter how powerful — would be spared.

Unnao gang rape case handed over to CBI after intervention of Prime Minister's Office: Sources

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Friday questioned a former Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank, HR Khan, in connection with alleged Punjab National Bank fraud case worth Rs 12,600 crores (1.9 billion) and relaxation of gold import policy by the erstwhile UPA government, sources said today.

The officials said he was questioned about the UPA government's 20:80 gold import scheme, which was cleared by then Finance Minister Chidambaram on May 13, 2014, barely three days before the counting of votes of the general election.

The CBI, which is probing the PNB fraud involving billionaire diamantaire Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi, had yesterday questioned three Chief General Managers and one General Manager of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), officials said.

The four senior RBI officials were called on by investigators to help explain banking processes, sources familiar with the matter said on Thursday.&nbsp;

Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi have been accused of defrauding banks by raising loans from overseas branches of Indian lenders using Rs 12,600 crores of fraudulent guarantees issued by rogue Punjab National Bank staff at a Mumbai branch.

The fraud, which is being investigated by the CBI and other enforcement agencies, is the biggest in the country's banking history.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Officials said he was also questioned about the UPA government's 20:80 gold import scheme, which was cleared by then Finance Minister Chidambaram on May 13, 2014, barely three days before the counting of votes of the general election

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Friday questioned a former Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank, HR Khan, in connection with alleged Punjab National Bank fraud case worth Rs 12,600 crores (1.9 billion) and relaxation of gold import policy by the erstwhile UPA government, sources said today. The officials said he was questioned about the UPA government's 20:80 gold import scheme, which was cleared by then Finance Minister Chidambaram on May 13, 2014, barely three days before the counting of votes of the general election. The CBI, which is probing the PNB fraud involving billionaire diamantaire Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi, had yesterday questioned three Chief General Managers and one General Manager of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), officials said. The four senior RBI officials were called on by investigators to help explain banking processes, sources familiar with the matter said on Thursday. Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi have been accused of defrauding banks by raising loans from overseas branches of Indian lenders using Rs 12,600 crores of fraudulent guarantees issued by rogue Punjab National Bank staff at a Mumbai branch. The fraud, which is being investigated by the CBI and other enforcement agencies, is the biggest in the country's banking history. (With inputs from agencies)

CBI questions former RBI deputy governor in PNB fraud case: Sources

Karti Chidambaram was produced before Delhi court in connection with the INX Media case on Monday.&nbsp;

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has decided to not seek further remand for Chidambaram in the case and told the court to send him to judicial custody for 15 days.&nbsp;He will seek a separate cell in jail in case court sends him to judicial custody.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Karti Chidambaram moves an&nbsp;application seeking early hearing of his bail plea.

The CBI on Saturday had brought <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-karti-chidambaram-taken-to-tihar-jail-to-confront-his-ca-35355">Karti Chidambaram and S Bhaskararaman</a>, Karti&#39;s chartered accountant(CA), face-to-face. Bhaskararaman, who handled all the business dealings and finance of Karti, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) last month.&nbsp;

The agency had on Friday extended Karti&#39;s custody for three days to make him confront his CA.&nbsp;

Karti was arrested on February 28 at the Chennai airport on his return from the UK, in connection with the FIR lodged on May 15 last year alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance to INX Media for receiving overseas funds to the tune of about Rs 305 crore in 2007 when his father was the Union finance minister.

The CBI has alleged that Karti received Rs 10 lakh as bribe for the FIPB clearance.&nbsp;The apex court had on February 23 refused to stay the summons issued by the ED against Karti.

The ED had registered a case against him and others in May last year. It had registered an enforcement case investigation report (ECIR), against the accused named in the CBI complaint. These accused included Karti Chidambaram, INX Media and its directors, Peter and Indrani Mukerjea.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has decided to not seek further remand of Chidambaram in the case

Karti Chidambaram was produced before Delhi court in connection with the INX Media case on Monday. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has decided to not seek further remand for Chidambaram in the case and told the court to send him to judicial custody for 15 days. He will seek a separate cell in jail in case court sends him to judicial custody. Meanwhile, Karti Chidambaram moves an application seeking early hearing of his bail plea. The CBI on Saturday had brought Karti Chidambaram and S Bhaskararaman, Karti's chartered accountant(CA), face-to-face. Bhaskararaman, who handled all the business dealings and finance of Karti, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) last month. The agency had on Friday extended Karti's custody for three days to make him confront his CA. Karti was arrested on February 28 at the Chennai airport on his return from the UK, in connection with the FIR lodged on May 15 last year alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance to INX Media for receiving overseas funds to the tune of about Rs 305 crore in 2007 when his father was the Union finance minister. The CBI has alleged that Karti received Rs 10 lakh as bribe for the FIPB clearance. The apex court had on February 23 refused to stay the summons issued by the ED against Karti. The ED had registered a case against him and others in May last year. It had registered an enforcement case investigation report (ECIR), against the accused named in the CBI complaint. These accused included Karti Chidambaram, INX Media and its directors, Peter and Indrani Mukerjea.

INX money laundering case: CBI seeks 15-day judicial custody for Karti Chidambaram

After Delhi&nbsp;Court extended his&nbsp;Central Bureau of Investigation&nbsp;(CBI) custody, Karti Chidambaram filed a caveat in Supreme Court on Saturday.

In the caveat, Karti appealed to the court not to give any order without hearing him if Enforcement Directorate (ED) challenges Delhi court&#39;s interim order in the case on Friday.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INXMediaCase?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INXMediaCase</a>: Karti Chidambaram files caveat in Supreme Court, appeals to SC to not give any order without hearing him if Enforcement Directorate challenges yesterday&#39;s interim order in the case. (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/kgKCa9IjdC">pic.twitter.com/kgKCa9IjdC</a>
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A Delhi court extended CBI&nbsp;custody of Karti Chidambaram, son of former finance minister P Chidambaram, by three days in the INX Media corruption case.

Karti&#39;s custody has now been extended till March 12.

The Patiala House Court also allowed the CBI application seeking permission to confront Karti Chidambaram with his chartered accountant Bhaskaraman in Tihar jail.

The court will now hear Karti&#39;s bail plea on March 15 in the CBI&#39;s case against him.&nbsp;The Delhi High Court granted interim relief to Karti until March 20 in the event of an arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) ) in the INX Media money laundering case on Friday.&nbsp;The court granted the relief till next date of hearing which is March 20.&nbsp;

Karti Chidambaram&#39;s lawyer also said that they have rejected CBI&#39;s&nbsp;request for conducting&nbsp;a polygraph test on Karti.

He said &quot;There cannot be a compulsion with regard to this test. We have given a written rejection saying that we are not accepting the polygraph test&quot;.

The CBI has alleged that Karti Chidambaram got kickbacks in return for foreign investment clearance for INX Media when his father was the finance minister.

Bhaskararaman was arrested from a five-star hotel in Delhi&nbsp;on February 16.

The ED claimed that Bhaskararaman, a qualified CA, had been assisting Karti in managing his &quot;ill-gotten wealth&quot; in India and abroad.

Karti appealed to court to not give any order without hearing him if ED challenges Delhi court's interim order on Friday

After Delhi Court extended his Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody, Karti Chidambaram filed a caveat in Supreme Court on Saturday. In the caveat, Karti appealed to the court not to give any order without hearing him if Enforcement Directorate (ED) challenges Delhi court's interim order in the case on Friday. #INXMediaCase: Karti Chidambaram files caveat in Supreme Court, appeals to SC to not give any order without hearing him if Enforcement Directorate challenges yesterday's interim order in the case. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/kgKCa9IjdC — ANI (@ANI) March 10, 2018 × A Delhi court extended CBI custody of Karti Chidambaram, son of former finance minister P Chidambaram, by three days in the INX Media corruption case. Karti's custody has now been extended till March 12. The Patiala House Court also allowed the CBI application seeking permission to confront Karti Chidambaram with his chartered accountant Bhaskaraman in Tihar jail. The court will now hear Karti's bail plea on March 15 in the CBI's case against him. The Delhi High Court granted interim relief to Karti until March 20 in the event of an arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) ) in the INX Media money laundering case on Friday. The court granted the relief till next date of hearing which is March 20. Karti Chidambaram's lawyer also said that they have rejected CBI's request for conducting a polygraph test on Karti. He said "There cannot be a compulsion with regard to this test. We have given a written rejection saying that we are not accepting the polygraph test". The CBI has alleged that Karti Chidambaram got kickbacks in return for foreign investment clearance for INX Media when his father was the finance minister. Bhaskararaman was arrested from a five-star hotel in Delhi on February 16. The ED claimed that Bhaskararaman, a qualified CA, had been assisting Karti in managing his "ill-gotten wealth" in India and abroad.

INX media case: Karti Chidambaram files caveat in Supreme Court

Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi refused to appear in front of investigating agency Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on health grounds.

In a letter to CBI, he stated that he could not travel due to the health problem.&nbsp;

&#39;&#39;I&#39;m&nbsp;not in a position to travel due to my persisting health problem. I had a cardiac procedure which was conducted in the first week of February 2018 and there is still pending work to be done on the same,&#39;&#39; he stated in his written reply to the CBI.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PNBScam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PNBScam</a> accused <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MehulChoksi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MehulChoksi</a>&#39;s reply to CBI: I am also not in a position to travel due to my persisting health problem. I had a cardiac procedure which was conducted in the first week of February 2018 and there is still pending work to be done on the same.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/971642498480132097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Choksi has also asked &#39;&#39;how he is a security threat to India&#39;&#39;.&nbsp;

&#39;&#39;As my Passport stands suspended. I further wish to point out that the RPO Mumbai has not given me any explanation as to why my Passport has been suspended and as to how I am a security threat to India,&#39;&#39; he noted in his response.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PNBScam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PNBScam</a> accused <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MehulChoksi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MehulChoksi</a>&#39;s reply to CBI: As my Passport stands suspended. I further wish to point out that the RPO Mumbai has not given me any explanation as to why my Passport has been suspended and as to how I am a security threat to India.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/971642495774818304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Stating that various media reports have media of reports have tarnished his image, he said right to life and right to fair trial are quintessential&nbsp;fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. &#39;&#39;The various news&nbsp;reports and&nbsp;publications against me violate those rights. I have got a&nbsp;sense from the different reports and publication that there is great&nbsp;unfairness which is prevalent against me and I would not get a fair&nbsp;treatment and a fair trial,&#39;&#39; he stated&nbsp;in his reply.

The media is conducting a trial by itself and is blowing each and&nbsp;every issue out of proportion and is exaggerating allegations and&nbsp;this has left me completely defenceless, especially as my Passport&nbsp;has been suspended, without due process, he noted.&nbsp;

&#39;I had expressed my&nbsp;apprehension for my family&rsquo;s and my safety. I wish to bring to your attention that I am being threatened by&nbsp;individuals with whom I have a business relationship.&nbsp;As there has been a complete and sudden closure of business, my employees,&nbsp;customers, creditors etc have started to show their animosity&nbsp;towards me,&#39;&#39; he stated in the letter.&nbsp;

He also said that he was concerned about his health and well-being and added that in case he was arrested, he would not be able to get proper health care and would be provided treatment only in a Government Hospital. &nbsp;

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'I'm not in a position to travel due to my persisting health problem. I had a cardiac procedure which was conducted in the first week of February 2018 and there is still pending work to be done on the same,' Choksi said in his reply to the CBI

Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi refused to appear in front of investigating agency Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on health grounds. In a letter to CBI, he stated that he could not travel due to the health problem. ''I'm not in a position to travel due to my persisting health problem. I had a cardiac procedure which was conducted in the first week of February 2018 and there is still pending work to be done on the same,'' he stated in his written reply to the CBI. #PNBScam accused #MehulChoksi's reply to CBI: I am also not in a position to travel due to my persisting health problem. I had a cardiac procedure which was conducted in the first week of February 2018 and there is still pending work to be done on the same. — ANI (@ANI) March 8, 2018 × Choksi has also asked ''how he is a security threat to India''. ''As my Passport stands suspended. I further wish to point out that the RPO Mumbai has not given me any explanation as to why my Passport has been suspended and as to how I am a security threat to India,'' he noted in his response. #PNBScam accused #MehulChoksi's reply to CBI: As my Passport stands suspended. I further wish to point out that the RPO Mumbai has not given me any explanation as to why my Passport has been suspended and as to how I am a security threat to India. — ANI (@ANI) March 8, 2018 × Stating that various media reports have media of reports have tarnished his image, he said right to life and right to fair trial are quintessential fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. ''The various news reports and publications against me violate those rights. I have got a sense from the different reports and publication that there is great unfairness which is prevalent against me and I would not get a fair treatment and a fair trial,'' he stated in his reply. The media is conducting a trial by itself and is blowing each and every issue out of proportion and is exaggerating allegations and this has left me completely defenceless, especially as my Passport has been suspended, without due process, he noted. 'I had expressed my apprehension for my family’s and my safety. I wish to bring to your attention that I am being threatened by individuals with whom I have a business relationship. As there has been a complete and sudden closure of business, my employees, customers, creditors etc have started to show their animosity towards me,'' he stated in the letter. He also said that he was concerned about his health and well-being and added that in case he was arrested, he would not be able to get proper health care and would be provided treatment only in a Government Hospital.

Mehul Choksi refuses to appear in front of CBI on health grounds, asks how he is security threat to India

India&#39;s most wanted underworld don Dawood Ibrahim&#39;s key aide and an accused in the 1993 Mumbai blasts, Farooq Takla was brought back to Mumbai on Thursday after he was deported from United Arab Emirates (UAE).

As per reports, an Air India flight number AI 996 carrying Takla landed in Mumbai earlier this morning.

Takla, is being questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and will be produced in Mumbai&#39;s Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (TADA) court later in the day.

He fled from India after 1993 Mumbai blasts, following which a Red Corner Notice was issued against him in 1995.

Apart from this, Takla also faces criminal conspiracy, murder, attempt to murder and several other charges.

At least 27 other accused in the 1993 Mumbai blasts, continue to elude and are declared as absconders.

As per reports, an Air India flight number AI 996 carrying Takla landed in Mumbai earlier this morning

India's most wanted underworld don Dawood Ibrahim's key aide and an accused in the 1993 Mumbai blasts, Farooq Takla was brought back to Mumbai on Thursday after he was deported from United Arab Emirates (UAE). As per reports, an Air India flight number AI 996 carrying Takla landed in Mumbai earlier this morning. Takla, is being questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and will be produced in Mumbai's Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (TADA) court later in the day. He fled from India after 1993 Mumbai blasts, following which a Red Corner Notice was issued against him in 1995. Apart from this, Takla also faces criminal conspiracy, murder, attempt to murder and several other charges. At least 27 other accused in the 1993 Mumbai blasts, continue to elude and are declared as absconders.

Dawood's key aide arrested, brought to Mumbai from Dubai

The Central Bureau of Investigation has taken Karti Chidambaram to Mumbai in Byculla jail for further investigation in the INX Media Case.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Karti Chidambaram will be brought face to face with Indrani Mukerjea and Peter Mukerjea, separately.&nbsp;

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INX Media Case: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KartiChidambaram?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KartiChidambaram</a> at Byculla jail in Mumbai; he will be brought face-to-face with Indrani Mukerjea and Peter Mukerjea, separately <a href="https://t.co/zqtEn7GNQh">pic.twitter.com/zqtEn7GNQh</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/970176901225459713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The special CBI court had earlier allowed the CBI to arrest Indrani Mukerjea in INX media case.&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate has registered a case against INX Media, its founder Peter Mukerjea and his wife Indrani under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The Mukerjeas are currently facing a trial in Mumbai for conspiring to kill Sheena Bora, Indrani&#39;s daughter from an earlier marriage, in April 2012.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-aircel-maxis-long-legal-battle-awaits-chidambarams-34441" target="_blank">Chidambaram </a>is on a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-money-laundering-case-kartichidambaram-sent-to-5-day-police-custody-34436" target="_blank">&nbsp;five-day police custody</a>&nbsp;and will be produced in the court on March 6.&nbsp;

In a court hearing on Wednesday, the CBI had claimed on having documents which prove clear links of Karti Chidambaram and various companies.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram&#39;s son <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-money-laundering-case-karti-chidambaram-taken-into-custody-by-cbi-in-chennai-34287" target="_blank">Karti Chidambaram was arrested on February 28</a> from Chennai Airport in connection with the INX Media money laundering case.

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Chidambaram was sent on a five-day police custody by the Delhi Patiala Court

The Central Bureau of Investigation has taken Karti Chidambaram to Mumbai in Byculla jail for further investigation in the INX Media Case. Karti Chidambaram will be brought face to face with Indrani Mukerjea and Peter Mukerjea, separately. INX Media Case: #KartiChidambaram at Byculla jail in Mumbai; he will be brought face-to-face with Indrani Mukerjea and Peter Mukerjea, separately pic.twitter.com/zqtEn7GNQh — ANI (@ANI) March 4, 2018 × The special CBI court had earlier allowed the CBI to arrest Indrani Mukerjea in INX media case. The Enforcement Directorate has registered a case against INX Media, its founder Peter Mukerjea and his wife Indrani under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The Mukerjeas are currently facing a trial in Mumbai for conspiring to kill Sheena Bora, Indrani's daughter from an earlier marriage, in April 2012. Chidambaram is on a five-day police custody and will be produced in the court on March 6. In a court hearing on Wednesday, the CBI had claimed on having documents which prove clear links of Karti Chidambaram and various companies. Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram's son Karti Chidambaram was arrested on February 28 from Chennai Airport in connection with the INX Media money laundering case.

INX Media case: Karti Chidambaram to be confronted with Indrani Mukerjea in Mumbai

A special Prevention of Money Laundering (PMLA) Court in Mumbai has issued a non-bailable warrant against Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi in relation to Punjab National Bank fraud case on Saturday.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pnb-scam-cannot-confirm-nirav-modi-is-here-says-us-34468">Cannot confirm Nirav Modi is here, says </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pnb-scam-cannot-confirm-nirav-modi-is-here-says-us-34468">US</a>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PNBFraudCase?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PNBFraudCase</a>: CBI produces 6 accused before Special CBI court seeking police custody for Gokulanath Shetty and judicial custody for the other 5. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/969868415036022785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Modi, his uncle Mehul Choksi and others are being investigated by multiple probe agencies following a complaint by the Punjab National Bank (PNB) which alleged fraud to the tune of over Rs 12,000 crore, with the purported involvement of a few employees of the bank.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-have-businesses-abroad-so-i-cant-join-investigations-nirav-modi-replies-to-cbis-mail-34348">We have businesses abroad so I can&#39;t join investigations says Nirav Modi to CBI&#39;s mail</a>

They allegedly acquired fraudulent letters of undertaking (LoUs) from its Brady House branch in Fort area for overseas credit from other lenders.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) have registered two FIRs each in this case.

Meanwhile, on Saturday CBI produced six accused in the case before special CBI court seeking police custody for Gokulnath Shetty and judicial custody for the other five accused.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PNBFraudCase?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PNBFraudCase</a>: CBI produces 6 accused before Special CBI court seeking police custody for Gokulanath Shetty and judicial custody for the other 5. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/969868415036022785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In February CBI had arrested Gokulnath Shetty former deputy manager of PNB&nbsp; with Manoj Kharat, single window operator at PNB and Hemant Bhat, authorised signatory of the Nirav Modi Group of Firms in February.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pnb-fraud-internal-chief-auditor-of-punjab-national-bank-arrested-34-more-bank-accounts-of-gitanjali-group-attached-34366">PNB&#39;s Internal Chief Auditor arrested, 34 more bank accounts of Gitanjali Group attached</a>

&nbsp;

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Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi and others are being investigated by multiple probe agencies following a complaint of fraudulent transactions by the Punjab National Bank

A special Prevention of Money Laundering (PMLA) Court in Mumbai has issued a non-bailable warrant against Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi in relation to Punjab National Bank fraud case on Saturday. Also read: Cannot confirm Nirav Modi is here, says US #PNBFraudCase: CBI produces 6 accused before Special CBI court seeking police custody for Gokulanath Shetty and judicial custody for the other 5. #Mumbai — ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2018 × Modi, his uncle Mehul Choksi and others are being investigated by multiple probe agencies following a complaint by the Punjab National Bank (PNB) which alleged fraud to the tune of over Rs 12,000 crore, with the purported involvement of a few employees of the bank. Also read: We have businesses abroad so I can't join investigations says Nirav Modi to CBI's mail They allegedly acquired fraudulent letters of undertaking (LoUs) from its Brady House branch in Fort area for overseas credit from other lenders. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) have registered two FIRs each in this case. Meanwhile, on Saturday CBI produced six accused in the case before special CBI court seeking police custody for Gokulnath Shetty and judicial custody for the other five accused. #PNBFraudCase: CBI produces 6 accused before Special CBI court seeking police custody for Gokulanath Shetty and judicial custody for the other 5. #Mumbai — ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2018 × In February CBI had arrested Gokulnath Shetty former deputy manager of PNB with Manoj Kharat, single window operator at PNB and Hemant Bhat, authorised signatory of the Nirav Modi Group of Firms in February. Also read: PNB's Internal Chief Auditor arrested, 34 more bank accounts of Gitanjali Group attached

PNB scam: Special PMLA court issues non-bailable warrant against Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), who arrested&nbsp;Karti Chidambaram on Wednesday morning at the Chennai Airport, brought him to Delhi.&nbsp;

Karti, Congress leader and son of former finance minister P Chidambaram, was arrested for violating the Foreign Exchange Management Act. The CBI team is now bringing Karti to Delhi.

According to sources,&nbsp;Chidambaram was arrested by the CBI sleuths at Chennai airport around 8am when he returned from London.

The case involves the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval granted in 2007 for receipt of funds by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ed-conducts-raids-at-karti-chidambarams-premises-in-delhi-chennai-over-inx-media-case-29388">INX Media</a> when Karti&#39;s father and senior <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chidambaram-moves-supreme-court-for-protection-of-fundamental-rights-33974">Congress leader P Chidambaram</a> was the finance minister during the UPA government&#39;s regime.

An FIR was filed by the CBI in connection with the case on May 15 last year. It is alleged that Karti Chidambaram received funds to the tune of Rs 10 lakh in the case, officials said.

Earlier, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karti-chidambarams-chartered-accountant-remanded-to-14-day-judicial-custody-34128">Karti Chidambaram&#39;s chartered accountant</a> S Bhaskararaman was arrested in connection with the same case. &nbsp;Bhaskararaman was arrested from a five-star hotel in the heart of the national capital on February 16.

&#39;VENDETTA, DIVERSIONARY TACTIC&#39;

The Congress said that Karti&#39;s arrest is vendetta and a diversionary tactic by the Modi government to hide its scams and &quot;mal-governance&quot;.

&quot;Karti Chidambaram&#39;s arrest would not deter the party from speaking the truth to hold the government accountable,&quot; the party&#39;s communications in-charge Randeep Surjewala said.

It was a classical diversionary tactic to hide corruption scams, mal-governance and mal-administration that have marred this government, Surjewala added.

His party colleague, AICC general secretary Ashok Gehlot, said Karti Chidambaram was arrested to divert attention from the big issues and the bank scam facing the NDA government.

BJP leader Sambit Patra, however, rubbished Congress&#39; allegations. &quot;I believe no one should consider oneself above the law of country. If corrupt are being jailed and law is taking its own course, I see no reason why any political party should cry vendetta. This is law, not vendetta,&quot; Patra said.

Congress leader and son of former finance minister P Chidambaram, Karti Chidambaram, was arrested for violating the Foreign Exchange Management Act.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), who arrested Karti Chidambaram on Wednesday morning at the Chennai Airport, brought him to Delhi. Karti, Congress leader and son of former finance minister P Chidambaram, was arrested for violating the Foreign Exchange Management Act. The CBI team is now bringing Karti to Delhi. According to sources, Chidambaram was arrested by the CBI sleuths at Chennai airport around 8am when he returned from London. The case involves the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval granted in 2007 for receipt of funds by INX Media when Karti's father and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram was the finance minister during the UPA government's regime. An FIR was filed by the CBI in connection with the case on May 15 last year. It is alleged that Karti Chidambaram received funds to the tune of Rs 10 lakh in the case, officials said. Earlier, Karti Chidambaram's chartered accountant S Bhaskararaman was arrested in connection with the same case. Bhaskararaman was arrested from a five-star hotel in the heart of the national capital on February 16. 'VENDETTA, DIVERSIONARY TACTIC' The Congress said that Karti's arrest is vendetta and a diversionary tactic by the Modi government to hide its scams and "mal-governance". "Karti Chidambaram's arrest would not deter the party from speaking the truth to hold the government accountable," the party's communications in-charge Randeep Surjewala said. It was a classical diversionary tactic to hide corruption scams, mal-governance and mal-administration that have marred this government, Surjewala added. His party colleague, AICC general secretary Ashok Gehlot, said Karti Chidambaram was arrested to divert attention from the big issues and the bank scam facing the NDA government. BJP leader Sambit Patra, however, rubbished Congress' allegations. "I believe no one should consider oneself above the law of country. If corrupt are being jailed and law is taking its own course, I see no reason why any political party should cry vendetta. This is law, not vendetta," Patra said.

INX Media money-laundering case: Karti Chidambaram arrested in Chennai, brought to Delhi by CBI

In the wake of the alleged multi-million scam involving jeweller Nirav Modi and his family, Punjab National Bank (PNB) Tuesday appointed AK Pradhan as the Group Chief Risk Officer.

He currently holds the post of General Manager.

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Punjab National Bank appoints A.K. Pradhan as Group Chief Risk Officer. <a href="https://t.co/HVMdHmFqYW">pic.twitter.com/HVMdHmFqYW</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/968490281711624192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The move comes soon after the finance ministry today set a 15-day deadline to state-run banks to take action to improve their oversight of operational and technological risks

Earlier today, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said PNB has informed the agency has detected a further scam of Rs 1,251 crore in respect to Gitanjali Gems.

&quot;PNB has informed us that further scam of Rs 1,251 crore has been detected in respect to Gitanjali Gems. CBI is now probing Rs 12,636 crore which is (Nirav and Gitanjali) PNB scam, up from Rs 11,421 crore,&quot; said CBI.

In a related development, PNB&#39;s former managing director Usha Ananthasubramanian was questioned today in Mumbai.&nbsp;

The two serving General Managers were also called for questioning. 
&nbsp;

He currently holds the post of General Manager

In the wake of the alleged multi-million scam involving jeweller Nirav Modi and his family, Punjab National Bank (PNB) Tuesday appointed AK Pradhan as the Group Chief Risk Officer. He currently holds the post of General Manager. Punjab National Bank appoints A.K. Pradhan as Group Chief Risk Officer. pic.twitter.com/HVMdHmFqYW — ANI (@ANI) February 27, 2018 × The move comes soon after the finance ministry today set a 15-day deadline to state-run banks to take action to improve their oversight of operational and technological risks Earlier today, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said PNB has informed the agency has detected a further scam of Rs 1,251 crore in respect to Gitanjali Gems. "PNB has informed us that further scam of Rs 1,251 crore has been detected in respect to Gitanjali Gems. CBI is now probing Rs 12,636 crore which is (Nirav and Gitanjali) PNB scam, up from Rs 11,421 crore," said CBI. In a related development, PNB's former managing director Usha Ananthasubramanian was questioned today in Mumbai. The two serving General Managers were also called for questioning.

PNB scam: Bank appoints AK Pradhan as Group Chief Risk Officer

The CBI has registered a case against Simbhaoli Sugars Limited, its Chairman Gurmit Singh Mann, Deputy Managing Director Gurpal Singh and others in connection with an alleged bank loan fraud of Rs 97.85 crore.

Simbhaoli Sugars Limited is one of the largest sugar mills in the country.

The company&#39;s Chief Executive Officer G S C Rao, CFO Sanjay Tapriya, Executive Director Gursimran Kaur Mann and five non-executive directors have also been booked by the agency.

Gurpal Singh is the son-in-law of Punjab Chief Minister Amrinder Singh.

The CBI today carried out searches at eight premises including residences of the directors, factory, corporate office and registered office of the company in Delhi, Hapur and Noida, CBI spokesperson Abhishek Dayal said.

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<h5>Deputy Managing Director Gurpal Singh is the son-in-law of Punjab Chief Minister Amrinder Singh</h5>
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The probe focuses on two loans -- Rs 97.85 crore which was declared fraud in 2015 and another corporate loan of Rs 110 crore which was used to repay the previous loan.

The second loan was declared NPA on November 29, 2016, nearly 20 days after scrapping of Rs 1,000 and old Rs 500 notes was announced, according to the CBI FIR.

The bank was allegedly cheated to the tune of Rs 97.85 crore, but the loss incurred by the bank is Rs 109.08 crore, the FIR read.

The lender, Oriental Bank of Commerce, complained to the CBI on November 17, 2017, but the agency registered a case of criminal conspiracy and cheating under the Prevention of Corruption Act on February 22.

According to the FIR, OBC sanctioned a loan of Rs 148.60 crore to the company in 2011.

The loan was sanctioned for financing 5,762 sugarcane farmers based on a tie-up agreement under an RBI scheme for supplying sugar produce to the company from January 25, 2012 to March 13, 2012.

The loan money was &quot;dishonestly and fraudulently diverted by the company for its own needs&quot;, Dayal said.

According to an MoU, out of the price to be paid by Simbhaoli Sugars Limited to the farmers, loan liabilities were to be adjusted and the remaining amount was to be paid by the company to the growers, according to the FIR.

The account turned NPA on March 31, 2015 and was declared alleged fraud by the bank to RBI on May 13, 2015 for an amount of Rs 97.85 crore.

OBC alleged that in addition to the existing NPA, the bank, under multiple banking arrangements, sanctioned another corporate loan of Rs 110 crore to the company on January 28, 2015 to pay its outstanding loan of Rs 97.85 crore.

The bank adjusted the total liability of Rs 112.94 crore towards the company by way of deposit of the new corporate loan.?

&quot;The corporate loan, too, turned NPA on November 29, 2016,&quot; Dayal said.&nbsp;

Simbhaoli Sugars is one of the country's largest sugar mills

The CBI has registered a case against Simbhaoli Sugars Limited, its Chairman Gurmit Singh Mann, Deputy Managing Director Gurpal Singh and others in connection with an alleged bank loan fraud of Rs 97.85 crore. Simbhaoli Sugars Limited is one of the largest sugar mills in the country. The company's Chief Executive Officer G S C Rao, CFO Sanjay Tapriya, Executive Director Gursimran Kaur Mann and five non-executive directors have also been booked by the agency. Gurpal Singh is the son-in-law of Punjab Chief Minister Amrinder Singh. The CBI today carried out searches at eight premises including residences of the directors, factory, corporate office and registered office of the company in Delhi, Hapur and Noida, CBI spokesperson Abhishek Dayal said. Deputy Managing Director Gurpal Singh is the son-in-law of Punjab Chief Minister Amrinder Singh × The probe focuses on two loans -- Rs 97.85 crore which was declared fraud in 2015 and another corporate loan of Rs 110 crore which was used to repay the previous loan. The second loan was declared NPA on November 29, 2016, nearly 20 days after scrapping of Rs 1,000 and old Rs 500 notes was announced, according to the CBI FIR. The bank was allegedly cheated to the tune of Rs 97.85 crore, but the loss incurred by the bank is Rs 109.08 crore, the FIR read. The lender, Oriental Bank of Commerce, complained to the CBI on November 17, 2017, but the agency registered a case of criminal conspiracy and cheating under the Prevention of Corruption Act on February 22. According to the FIR, OBC sanctioned a loan of Rs 148.60 crore to the company in 2011. The loan was sanctioned for financing 5,762 sugarcane farmers based on a tie-up agreement under an RBI scheme for supplying sugar produce to the company from January 25, 2012 to March 13, 2012. The loan money was "dishonestly and fraudulently diverted by the company for its own needs", Dayal said. According to an MoU, out of the price to be paid by Simbhaoli Sugars Limited to the farmers, loan liabilities were to be adjusted and the remaining amount was to be paid by the company to the growers, according to the FIR. The account turned NPA on March 31, 2015 and was declared alleged fraud by the bank to RBI on May 13, 2015 for an amount of Rs 97.85 crore. OBC alleged that in addition to the existing NPA, the bank, under multiple banking arrangements, sanctioned another corporate loan of Rs 110 crore to the company on January 28, 2015 to pay its outstanding loan of Rs 97.85 crore. The bank adjusted the total liability of Rs 112.94 crore towards the company by way of deposit of the new corporate loan.? "The corporate loan, too, turned NPA on November 29, 2016," Dayal said.

Punjab CM's son-in-law, others booked in Rs 97-cr bank loan fraud case against Simbhaoli Sugars Ltd