CBI should not make loose remarks: Balwa

A day after the CBI alleged it had “information” that Swan Telecom promoter Shahid Balwa was travelling abroad without prior permission, the 2G scam accused told a Delhi court that the probe agency should not make “irresponsible statements” without verifying facts.

A day after the CBI alleged it had “information” that Swan Telecom promoter Shahid Balwa was travelling abroad without prior permission, the 2G scam accused told a Delhi court that the probe agency should not make “irresponsible statements” without verifying facts.

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CBI prosecutor KK Goel had made the statement on Monday while opposing Balwa’s plea for personal exemption from appearance before the court for five days.

Balwa owns Mumbai-based Eon Aviation, which has operated many international flights but airport records could not establish whether he had travelled in any of those flights.

Balwa is not allowed to travel abroad, as the court conducting the 2G-scam trial had impounded his passport.

On Tuesday, Balwa’s counsel told the Delhi court that the CBI’s claim was baseless and had caused him trauma.

He said Balwa was a “public figure” and could not go abroad without prior permission as his passport was lying in the court.

The CBI, however, did not say anything regarding the allegation against Balwa.

Also, Eon Aviation officials refused to comment on the matter.

(With PTI inputs)