CBI Chief Verma dismissal: Chowkidar’s true colours
Though the Supreme Court had ordered CBI chief Alok Verma to be reinstated into his position, the government has taken less than 24 hours to unseat him through a committee led by PM Narendra Modi. The objections recorded by Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge did not make a cut.
Ironically, the government had earlier mentioned Verma was sent on leave following the recommendation made by CVC, which was rejected by the court before it sought reinstatement of Verma. And on the basis of same accusations levelled by the CVC, Modi has transferred Verma. Which means even CVC did not articulate well on the accusations listed out on the officer.
The committee’s decision on Verma transfer was based on the recommendations made by the CVC. But the committee itself has not been able to substantiate any of the allegations it has levelled against Verma, which is largely based on the complaints listed out by the CVC.
There is one allegation that Verma has taken Rs 2 cr bribe from an industrialist, but this is unsubstantiated. The Central Vigilance Committee had said incidental witnesses had to be probed. Though there is a mention of some intelligence leads not being probed during his tenure, CVC has not been able to articulate on them. Three complaints among the 10 complaints have been ascertained, but the others are not substantiated as per the vigilance committee.
Even the veracity of allegations is under doubt. CVC has ascertained the fact that a suspect in IARTC case has not been mentioned as an accused in the subsequent FIR, CVC had observed.
The accusation of Verma unable to check gold trafficking in Delhi airport has been proved partially right. Kharge had argued that Verma should be allowed to finish his tenure while the investigation based on the CVC report is on. He had even said since Verma had lost 77 days of his service, his tenure should be extended by those many days to make good for the time lost.
But the central government was very stuck upon keeping Verma out of the office. The committee said allegations against him had to be proved and he cannot continue as the Chief of CBI. Another Judge has concurred with this recommendation made by Modi. This is nothing but an authoritarian situation. Committee has been reduced to just name sake.
This is a severe blow on the moral strength of CBI. Verma’s transfer is just name sake because the committee had probably even known the officer may not accept a transfer with his service lasting just about a month. As expected, Verma resigned from the post. Instead of slaving before the government, he has martyred his service to save his self respect. Someone like him is the hope of this country.
The whole incident has proved one thing beyond doubt. PM Modi fears the CBI. The people of this country know Modi has ensured Verma does not return as CBI chief following the Rafale deal which has left the government stark naked.
If not for the cover of power, Rafale by now is the major undoing of the government. Verma lost his job owing to his interest in investigating the Rafale deal. Modi, who would take pride in calling himself the Chowkidar, has whipped the CBI with his hunter. If he really was a gatekeeper of this country, why should he be scared of the CBI?
The house owner will really not throw a dog out just because he barked at something suspicious. Instead he would check around his house to see what’s lurking. Looks like Modi has admitted to the misdemeanors, by way of throwing out the investigating officer. This has gone to show the Chowkidar and the thief, to the nation.
The country is taking note of how CBI is being pressurized with Modi and his team continuing to be resistant of any investigation of Rafale deal. Modi is not bigger than the country and its security. He is totally deserving of a punishment if he has favoured a private company like Reliance over state run expert at aviation HAL.
In fact Modi has run HAL into the ground with this decision. Why does he fear an investigation if he has done no wrong in Rafale? The lone choice of proving himself innocent is by allowing an inquiry to take place. He cannot shut the mouth of the constitution and judiciary by misplacing a Verma. Modi would know that soon.
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Inappropriate for MLAs seeking free IPL tickets, says D.K. Suresh
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Milk Union Ltd President D.K. Suresh on Monday said it is inappropriate for MLAs to seek free IPL tickets, adding that those interested in watching matches should pay for them personally.
Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivanagar, he said, “IPL is a commercial tournament and does not represent the country. It is not right for public representatives to focus too much on such matters.”
Referring to the recent controversy during the RCB celebrations, he said, “let us find out who benefited the most from the statements made during the incident.” He also pointed out that BJP MLAs had received IPL tickets as well.
Responding to discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Suresh said the government has already approved the construction of a new stadium at a location he had proposed.
“I had suggested building a stadium in Surya City and submitted a proposal for it. Bengaluru needs four stadiums in four directions to cater to its growing population and encourage youth participation in sports,” he said.
He noted that apart from Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and the Football Stadium, there are limited facilities in the city.
“When I was a Lok Sabha member, I had proposed allocating 100 acres in my constituency at Surya City. The land was later earmarked and the plan approved,” he added.
Suresh said he has discussed the project with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Chairman Shivalingegowda, and Anekal MLA Shivanna.
“The Cabinet has now approved the project, and a stadium will be developed on around 50–60 acres,” he said.
He further added that he has requested the Deputy Chief Minister to build another stadium at Shivarama Karanth Layout through the BDA, where 40 acres have been allocated. Plans are also being discussed to develop a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi.
Commending state government's recent bilingual policy move, Suresh said forcing children to learn three languages could affect their comprehension.
“It is a good decision to make two languages compulsory. Learning a third language should be left to the choice of students and parents,” he said.
Responding to criticism from BJP leaders, he said their tendency is to oppose every decision of the government.
“To please their central leadership, they take a pro-Hindi stance. Instead, they should advocate for the adoption of Kannada in all states,” he said.
When asked about the earlier three-language policy under Congress, he said, “the situation is different now. Today, the focus should be on quality learning. Kannada should remain the primary language, while students and parents can choose an additional language.”
