CBI finds ‘illegality’ in Niira Radia tapes

A report submitted by the Supreme Court appointed team of CBI and Income Tax officers has found elements of illegality in the taped conversations between corporate lobbyist Niira Radia, corporates and politicians, and has recommended a further CBI probe into it.

An analysis of the conversation, done by a six-member team, was on Wednesday placed before the bench of Justice GS Singhvi and justice Gopal Gowda. According to the team, some of the cases could be investigated by the CBI directly and for some consent of state governments would be required.

“We will direct a thorough investigation in all these issues. As and when the matter will arise, this court will order a CBI probe. Some of the items highlighted will become the subject matter of investigation,” the bench said, seeking a response from the Centre on the recommendation of a further probe.

The government would also make its stand clear with regard to the probe to be conducted with the consent of some state governments. The court would take up the case for a hearing on August 1.

Expressing disapproval at the growing trend of “government officers privy to classified information joining business houses,” the bench commended the team of investigators for conducting a thorough investigation.

“Officers entrusted with the task have done a commendable job. Officers said that it has to be further investigated. There are suggestions on ten issues,” the bench said after going through the report.

The special team was set up by the SC on February 21 to examine the contents of tapped telephonic conversations of Radia. It happened during the hearing of a petition filed by Ratan Tata claiming the publication of leaked transcripts violated his right to privacy.