The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) wants to interrogate former telecom minister Dayanidhi Maran in custody to unearth the “larger conspiracy” behind the illegal telephone network that was installed at his residence when he held the ministerial post and to ensure he doesn’t “intimidate witnesses”.
According to the CBI, BSNL officials from the Chennai office, between 2004 and 2007, installed 727 telephone lines and two broadband connections at Maran’s home under the service category; no bills were raised for the period.
The connections were allegedly used by the Sun TV network, owned by his older brother Kalanithi.
Maran had also obtained 13 MTNL connections at his New Delhi home.
The agency alleged that he was entitled to only three telephone connections, two mobile connections, and 1.5 lakh free calls.
“….. The manner in which he systematically and clandestinely acquired huge network of telephone services illegally and without his entitlement, there is every possibility that he will try to intimidate the witnesses and tamper with evidence,” read the CBI affidavit filed in the top court, contesting Maran’s plea to protect him from arrest.
The CBI asked the Supreme Court to uphold the Madras high court’s August 10 order cancelling Maran’s anticipatory bail and said there is sufficient evidence to establish his guilt in the 2G spectrum scam.
{{/usCountry}}The CBI asked the Supreme Court to uphold the Madras high court’s August 10 order cancelling Maran’s anticipatory bail and said there is sufficient evidence to establish his guilt in the 2G spectrum scam.
{{/usCountry}}While hearing Maran’s appeal, the SC came down heavily on the CBI for insisting upon his custody. A bench headed by justice TS Thakur said the case reeked of political vendetta.