CBI tightens noose on big netas

The agency also summoned former TMC MP Somen Mitra, apart from once again calling in TMC Rajya Sabha MP Srinjoy Basu and painter Suvaprassanna who was close to the Bengal chief minister.

With summons to state transport/sports minister Madan Mitra, the CBI probe in the Saradha scam has entered the crucial third phase.

The agency is expected to now finally tighten the noose around ‘bigwig beneficiaries’ of the scam, after preparing ground for this moment over the past couple of months.

The agency also summoned former TMC MP Somen Mitra, apart from once again calling in TMC Rajya Sabha MP Srinjoy Basu and painter Suvaprassanna who was close to the Bengal chief minister.

“We have been collecting evidences and now we feel that some particular persons need be interrogated, he may be a minister or an MP. Everyone connected with the chit fund scam is important,” said CBI source in Delhi.

Recently, in Assam CBI arrested Ramchandra Hansdah, standing BJD MP, along with a host of politicians, chit fund owners and officials. Sleuths stated that they are ready to wait for Mitra, who is expected to undergo an operation shortly.

In what can be termed as the first phase of the probe, CBI sought custody of Saradha chairman Sudipto Sen, executive director Debjani Mukherjee and suspended Trinamool Rajya Sabha MP Kunal Ghosh.

Further investigations led to more arrests including official of East Bengal club Debabrata Sarkar. Another chargesheet was submitted to court with fresh names such as Rajat Majumdar and Sarkar on November 17.

According to CBI officers, further arrests will be made based on evidences and corroborating the evidences. Thereafter, another chargesheet is expected to be submitted to the court.

Interestingly, close associates of Mitra have already been interrogated. Significantly, CBI has also summoned Somen Mitra, former TMC MP who is now with Congress.

Mitra told the media that he will co-operate with the investigation.