2G spectrum scam: Nira Radia to be summoned by CBI

The CBI is likely to summon corporate lobbyist and a key link in the second-generation mobile telephony spectrum scam, Nira Radia, for questioning soon. Sources said Radia is currently in London and has already tried to evade two previous summons from the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Radia has been accused of fixing mobile bandwidth licences on behalf of some corporate houses.

Her role first emerged when the income tax department recorded her conversations with Raja and corporate biggies, over 10 months in 2008 and 2009. It appeared that several key people who could make a difference in fixing licences had been compromised.     

Also, that Radia was privy to several confidential government documents.
The CBI had filed an FIR in the matter on October 21, 2009, after the case was sent to it by the Central Vigilance Commission.

Last week, Radia had furnished details to the ED, pertaining to cash flow statements, her personal bank details, and transaction details of all her companies. But the ED was apparently not satisfied and had asked for a personal appearance.

CBI officials have also indicated that they would be scanning records of top bureaucrats who have either retired from the telecom ministry during the time of the scandal or taken up important posts in private telecom companies during that tenure. “We want to see whether there was any exchange of money or favours involved in appointment of these people,” said a senior CBI official.