The CBI has decided to register a “preliminary enquiry” (PE) to probe the alleged installation of 323 telephone lines at Chennai residence of Dayanidhi Maran during his tenure as communications minister between June 2004 and May 2007.
According to sources there are allegations that former communications minister got these phone lines listed in the name of the chief general manager (CGM) of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), Chennai. The lines were allegedly used for Mr Maran’s family business, sources added.
“Decision to register PE was taken at a high level meeting attended by the CBI as well as officials of department of telecommunication (DoT). The PE will be registered against unknown officials of the BSNL and others,” sources said. The telephone lines installed at Chennai residence of Mr Maran were not ordinary telephone lines, sources said adding the agency will soon register PE.