Faced with allegations of selectively going slow on politically sensitive cases, including those of disproportionate assets against BSP supremo Mayawati and SP chief Mulayam Singh Yadav, the CBI on Wednesday quickly refuted such allegations saying the agency is ‘’doing whatever is required under the law’’. However, the agency also pointed out that it can proceed only when it gets enough evidence which is legally tenable.
Replying to former BSF director-general Prakash Singh, who had complained to CVC on behalf of NGO India Rejuvenation Initiative, the CBI officially refuted the allegations of tardy probe.
“A person as knowledgeable and battle hardened as you have chosen to cast aspersions on the functioning of the CBI without taking pains to ascertain the facts from CBI where a large number of officers are known to you,” the agency said in a strongly worded response. Giving a case by case rebuttal of allegations, the agency said, “CBI is fully aware of its Constitutional and legal obligations.”
In his letter to CBI director Ranjit Sinha, Mr Singh had alleged that the investigating agency was “dragging its feet” in many cases. “On the other hand, there have been cases where the organisation has been over enthusiastic,” it said.
The CBI director termed Mr Prakash Singh’s letter as a “rude surprise” and listed out the developments in each of the cases. Mr Sinha said in Mulayam’s case efforts “have been made to ensure a fair, just and professional enquiry. Since the enquiry is under scrutiny and final action is to be decided, I am not in a position to disclose the details and the outcome.”
On Mayawati’s case Mr Sinha said, “The allegation is baseless and without any merit.” He said the CBI had got a certified copy of the Supreme Court order only on September 2 and any further action could be taken only after perusal of the order.