The court today slammed CBI for its 'slipshod' investigations into the 2G spectrum scam, in which the alleged role of telecom minister A Raja has come under the scanner, saying 'the same minister is still continuing today'.
The Supreme Court today slammed CBI for its "slipshod" investigations into the 2G spectrum allocation scam, in which the alleged role of telecom minister A Raja has come under the scanner, saying "the same minister is still continuing today".
"You (CBI) have not done anything. The matter is serious. The same minister is still continuing today. Is that the way the government functions? Do you follow the same standards in respect of everyone? One year has (already) gone by," a bench comprising Justice GS Singhvi and Justice AK Ganguly said.
The remarks of the bench came as soon as additional solicitor general (ASG) Haren Raval began responding to the submissions made by the counsel for an NGO which has brought the issue before the apex court.
The ASG said the enormity, complexity and volume of the documents involved in the issue required some more time to complete the investigation.
"We have so many phone calls to examine," Raval said.
However, his submission was cut short by the Bench which said "it's only slipshod. You are dragging your feet".
Raval then resumed his submission and said the complex nature of the issue was the reason the investigations into the scam has taken some time.
He said that to maintain continuity, the investigation is being carried out in right earnest and senior officials of competence are conducting the investigations into all aspects of the matter.
At this point, the bench shot back "will it take another 10 years?"
The ASG replied the investigation will be completed within six months.
After this, the bench wanted to know about the response to the the draft reports of the CAG which had pointed out that the scam on 2G spectrum allocation caused a loss of Rs1.4 lakh crore to the exchequer.
The counsel, appearing for the Centre, said solicitor general Gopal Subramanium was to argue in the matter but was not available due to ill health.
Senior advocate TR Andhyarujina, appearing for Raja, said the response to the CAG report has been given by the department of telecom.
He claimed a totally "wrong impression" has been given by filing draft reports of the CAG to "sensationalise" the entire issue.
The senior advocate said selective portions were brought to the notice of the court and the minister's reply to the Chief Vigilance Commission was not read out.
"The minister has given a complete answer to the CVC," Andhyarujina said.
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