Panel wants CBI to step in

Jan. 13: In a major embarrassment to the BJP government, which appointed the Commission to probe the land irregularities in Karnataka between 1995 and 2010; Justice B. Padmaraj Commission of Inquiry has approached the Central government for its concurrence for utilising the services of the Central Bureau of Investigation in the national interest.The panels move has come as a rude shock to the government, which was not informed about it. The Commission stated that it has knocked on the doors of the Central government for CBI aid because of the politically sensitive nature of the inquiry.Giving reasons for seeking CBI help, the Commission in their letter dated January 3, to the Department of Personnel & Training, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pension, Government of India, has stated that the scope of inquiry entails inquiry into the acts and omissions of various government bodies, authorities, officers and officials over a period of 15 years. Keeping in view the personalities involved and the public interest in mind, the Commission is of the opinion that it would be appropriate to utilize the services of the premier investigating agency of the Central government, states the letter. Under Section 5A of the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952, the Commission appointed by the State government may utilize the services of any investigating agency of the Central government with the concurrence of the Centre, explained Mr. Srivatsa Kedalaya, secretary, Justice Padamaraj Commission. The Centre is yet to respond to the panel's call for help.

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