2G case: 17 including Raja end arguments on framing of charges

Seventeen accused, including former Telecom Minister A Raja, today concluded nearly over a month-long day-to-day arguments on framing of charges in a Delhi court in the 2G spectrum allocation scam case.

"The court would now resume hearing on Monday when special prosecutor U U Lalit would advance rebuttal arguments on behalf of CBI," Special Judge O P Saini said, after Amit Desai, counsel for Swan Telecom, wrapped up his arguments.

The special judge, meanwhile, turned down the plea of some of the accused that they be allowed to come to the court tomorrow for legal consultations with their lawyers.

"Advancing of arguments on your behalf are over. Whatever is to be done, will be done by me. You all will be brought on Monday (August 29)," the judge said, adding that now he will have to write the order on framing of charges.

Lalit, who started advancing arguments on July 21, had said it was Raja who approved the grant of dual technology 2G spectrum licenses to telecom firms like ADAG's Reliance Communication and others a day before inviting applications for it.

The agency claimed there was sufficient prima facie evidence to frame charges against 17 accused under provisions of the IPC and the Prevention of Corruption Act, dealing with criminal conspiracy and giving and accepting bribe.

Seeking discharge from the case, Desai said CBI failed to establish that Swan Telecom entered into a conspiracy with others to achieve "the common goal to cause loss to the state".