‘CBI Director Was Non-Cooperative, Wilfully Obstructive’, Says CVC Amidst Congress’ Conspiracy Claim

A report in the Free Press Journal has claimed that CBI Director Alok Verma was ousted for his lack of cooperation with the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) in its investigation. The CVC has reportedly described him as non-cooperative, non-compliant and someone who created wilful obstructions in its functioning.

The CVC as per the report served three notices to the CBI Director on 11 September to submit documents by 14 September, but he failed to do so despite getting subsequent opportunities.

The CVC gave a statement that, “Despite repeated assurances and reminders, the Director, CBI, failed to furnish the records/files before the commission. The CVC has observed that Director, CBI, has not been cooperating in making available records/files sought by the commission relating to serious allegations”.

Besides this, the Union Finance Minister, Arun Jaitley asserted on Wednesday (24 October) that the decision to send both CBI Director Alok Verma and Special Director Rakesh Asthana, on leave was essential to maintain the institutional integrity and credibility of country’s top investigative agency. the CBI, reported The New Indian Express.

The finance minister mentioned that current tussle between the top two officials of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) was a "bizarre and unfortunate" situation. He also stated that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) will look into the matter and till the investigation is complete, both the officers will ‘sit out’ as an interim measure.

Jaitley dismissed allegations by the Congress’ leaders as ‘rubbish’ which said that Verma was removed as he wanted to investigate into the Rafael deal. However, Alok Verma has moved to the Supreme Court against the forced leave.

Meanwhile, Nageshwar Rao, a 1986-batch Odisha cadre IPS officer, has been appointed as the CBI director. He appointed Satish Dagar as Superintendent of Police to probe the case against former Special Director Rakesh Asthana.