The Central Bureau of Investigation probe into the 2G spectrum scam has revealed that the transfer of `200 crores to Chennai-based Kalaignar TV, allegedly by a company linked to Shahid Balwa, was a “quid pro quo” for Swan Telecom getting Unified Access Service (UAS) licence at a nominal price.
The CBI in its supplementary chargesheet in the 2G spectrum scam case, filed on April 25 in a special court, said, “Investigation by the CBI has established that accused A. Raja (former telecom minister), Kanimozhi (daughter of Tamil Nadu chief minister M. Karunanidhi) and Sharad Kumar, both stakeholders in Kalaignar TV, accepted and received an illegal gratification of `200 crores in Chennai-based TV channel from other accused Shahid Balwa.”
“The transfer of `200 crores by Dynamix Realty to Chennai-based Kalaignar TV, through Cineyug Films, was not a ‘genuine business transaction’ but ‘it was in the nature of illegal gratification’ paid in lieu of the spectrum licences given by Raja to Balwa’s Swan Telecom,” said the chargesheet.
Earlier, the TV channel had maintained that the payment of `200 crores was meant to be an investment that was returned following differences in evaluation over equity.
The agency, however, in its chargesheet said, “The amount was simply a bribe which was paid in active criminal conspiracy with accused Asif Balwa, brother of Shahid Balwa.” Probe has further revealed that Ms Kanimozhi was in regular touch with A. Raja regarding launching of Kalaignar TV and other pending works of the TV channel.