The CBI, which is probing the 2G scam, has started collecting details of certain hawala operators based in other Indian cities, who were allegedly in touch with the two Delhi-based suspected hawala operators, Alok Jain and Mahesh Jain.
The CBI recently conducted searches at the residential premises of Mahesh Jain and Alok Jain in Delhi in connection with its probe. Sources said that the searches were carried out to find out the probable links between the alleged hawala operators and former telecom minister A. Raja, as well as his family members.
Sources further said, “There are reports that some other hawala operators from certain cities were also in touch with Mahesh Jain and Alok Jain. The CBI is now collecting details about those hawala operators who were in touch with the duo in connection with the 2G probe. If required the agency may question them also.”
The Enforcement Directorate (ED), which is also probing the 2G scam, has already started questioning Mahesh Jain and Alok Jain in connection with its probe into the scam. The CBI may take assistance of the ED in this regard, sources added. The ED has already registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act in March this year against unknown officials of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and representatives of certain private companies in connection with the award of new telecom licences in 2008.
The central probe agencies are also preparing a list of those suspects who remained in constant touch with certain hawala operators during the time of 2G spectrum allotment, sources said.
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DoT extends 2G probe panel tenure
AGE CORRESPONDENT
New Delhi
Jan. 12: The telecom ministry on Wednesday extended the tenure of the one-man committee of retired Supreme Court judge Justice Shivraj V. Patil which is probing the appropriateness of procedures followed in issuance of 2G licences and spectrum during 2001-2009 till January 31.
The tenure of the committee was to expire on Wednesday. Though no official reason was given by the government, sources said time was taken in getting 2G spectrum files which are with the CBI. Also, Mr Patil wanted to get himself fully educated about the issue before giving his report.
Mr Sibal has said that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty by the committee.