‘Zero loss statement weakens CBI case’

Telecom minister Kapil Sibal's view that there was “zero loss” to the government in the 2G scam is being used by the accused to weaken the CBI's case for prosecution, stated a letter by MP Rajeev Chandrasekhar to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday.

Telecom minister Kapil Sibal's view that there was “zero loss” to the government in the 2G scam is being used by the accused to weaken the CBI's case for prosecution, stated a letter by MP Rajeev Chandrasekhar to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday.

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“I had, in my letter, warned you of the serious consequences of Mr Sibal’s statements and the need for you to direct him to withdraw his statements immediately, as it would impinge upon the independent investigation process as well as provide a safe passage for those who are accused of perpetrating the largest ever financial scam in the history of independent India,” wrote Chandrasekhar.

According to Chandrasekhar, accused Shahid Balwa's lawyer argued that there was no loss from the 2G spectrum scam because the PM and Sibal had said so.

“He (Balwa’s lawyer) went on to argue that, given Mr Sibal's in-depth knowledge of the sector, such a claim could not be doubted, and therefore, the entire case made out against them was fictitious,” wrote Chandrasekhar.

“Mr Sibal’s willingness to stand by the accused and protect their interest instead of the public’s... is evident from several examples,” wrote Chandrasekhar.