The Indian Express
Terming the Centre’s decision of sending CBI Director Alok Verma on leave as “illegal”, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday moved the Supreme Court and stated that the government’s move was in violation of the CBI Act, PTI reported.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s suo moto action of sending CBI director Alok Verma on leave is illegal and is in violation of the CBI Act,” Kharge was quoted as saying by the news agency.
Also watch: Top court rejects CBI plea to reopen Bofors case
In his petition, Kharge stated that only the three-member committee of leader of opposition, prime minister and the Chief Justice of India can take a decision on the appointment or removal of the CBI director as per the act. He further said that the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has no power to act against the CBI director.
Last month, Verma was divested of all responsibilities and sent on “administrative leave” by the government. The move had prompted Kharge to write a letter to the Prime Minister, who heads the committee, saying it was “mala fide”.
Also see: Indian politicians - Then and now
This petition by the Congress leader comes amid the party’s allegations that Verma was “removed” from the post as he wanted to investigate the Rafale fighter jet deal. Party president Rahul Gandhi Friday alleged that Dassault Aviation paid Rs 284 crore as the “first instalment of kickbacks” to Anil Ambani’s company.
Incidentally, it was Kharge who had lodged dissent over the appointment of Verma as CBI director in January 2017 stating that he did not hold enough experience in CBI and anti-corruption investigation.
COMMENTS