The CBI, which sent a fresh list of “missing files” to the attorney-general, who in turn forwarded it to the coal ministry, made it clear the documents it has sought are “crucial” to complete its investigation into at least four cases related to “Coalgate”. It also said other relevant documents on the scam were equally essential to take the probe forward in three preliminary enquiries it has registered, sources said.
“Despite repeated reminders, the ministry has not provided the presentation and feedback forms submitted by two private companies for allocations of Lohara East coal block in Maharashtra and Thesgora-B/Rudrapuri block in Madhya Pradesh. This is certainly hampering the probe in at least two FIRs registered in October 2012,” a source said. The CBI sought these documents again in the fresh list, the sources added.
CBI director Ranjit Sinha remained evasive Wednesday when asked about the possibility of examining Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in its probe into the coal scam. Asked if the CBI will examine the PM, Mr Sinha told reporters: “I cannot rule out or confirm. I don’t want to make any comment.”