MEA seeks CBI investigation into gift scam

The ministry of external affairs (MEA) has sought a CBI probe into the scam in its protocol division, involving buying of sub-standard gifts at inflated costs for presenting to foreign dignitaries by the President, Prime Minister and other high-ranking officials.

The ministry of external affairs (MEA) has sought a CBI probe into the scam in its protocol division, involving buying of sub-standard gifts at inflated costs for presenting to foreign dignitaries by the President, Prime Minister and other high-ranking officials.

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The request for a CBI probe follows a series of reports on the irregularities published in HT from January 10-12.

"The CBI has been requested to undertake a detailed investigation into the matter," the ministry said in reply to an RTI query by activist Subhash Agarwal.

But the ministry refused to part with copies of relevant documents, files and correspondence on the matter, saying such disclosures would "impede" the CBI probe.