Maintaining that early resolution of high profile cases being currently handled by the CBI constituted a “litmus test” for the agency, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday called upon the officials of the India’s premier investigating agency to put their heads down and avoid media glare ensuring logical conclusion of the cases.
While inaugurating the new headquarters of the CBI, the Prime Minister said CBI should act without fear or favour and bring to book all those who are guilty, irrespective of their position or status. Whoever transgresses the law of the land, however mighty, has to be brought to book, he said.
“What is expected from the CBI is thorough investigation, fair action and quick results. It has set benchmarks for other investigating agencies in the country. But there is a room for improvement. I would urge the CBI officials to strive tirelessly to set even higher standards of work,” said Dr Singh.
The CBI is currently investigating many high-profile cases of corruption that have attracted a great deal of public attention, he said, adding the handling of these cases constitutes a litmus test for the agency.
He further said, “Our government is committed to provide manpower, finances and technology that this premier investigating agency requires. The government has decided to set up 71 additional special courts for CBI of which 64 have been sanctioned but only 16 are operational. I am sure that the new building of the CBI will provide all of you (CBI officials) a congenial and comfortable habitat,” he said, adding, “It is an impressive structure and I congratulate all those who have contributed to its construction.”
The Prime Minister also presented President’s Police Medals to 11 CBI officers, including joint director O.P. Galhotra, Arun Kumar and Rishi Raj Singh on the occasion.
Built at the cost of `186 crores by the National Buildings Construction Corporation Limited, the 11-storey building of the CBI will house all branches of the CBI under one roof. A gallery showcasing the history and landmark achievements of the CBI is also a part of the building.
Spread in around 7,000 square metre and equipped with modern communication systems, the new CBI headquarters offer to its staff separate gyms for men and women, a terrace garden and a double level basement parking for about 470 vehicles.
While speaking on the occasion, CBI director A.P. Singh said agency has been facing several problems such as delay in according sanction for prosecution, non-execution of letters rogatory, delays in receiving forensic reports and large number of vacancies at all levels. He said despite 30 per cent shortage, the agency has an impressive 70 per cent conviction rate. Others who were present on the occasion included, Union ministers — P. Chidambaram, M. Veerappa Moily, Kapil Sibal and V. Narayanswami.