2G spectrum scam: A Raja, Nira Radia get CBI notices

The CBI has sent notices to disgraced former telecom minister A Raja and corporate lobbyist Niira Radia, expediting its probe into the 2G spectrum scam.

Officials in the probe agency said they wanted to question Raja on a range of issues, including his financial investments, source of money, bank transactions in the past few years and his partners in business.

After the news of CBI summons for Raja became public, Raja was seen outside Apollo hospital in Chennai. The former minister rubbished reports that he was trying to evade the CBI summons by going to a hospital.

“Some media people want to say that I am avoiding arrest and that I want to take shelter in a hospital. What nonsense are you talking? Does it mean I should not go to my doctor? It was a matter of 10 minutes. I met the doctor and came back,” Raja told reporters.

Raja also dismissed as “rubbish” reports that he had sought anticipatory bail. “I am not an accused and there is no question of my applying for an anticipatory bail,” he told reporters.     

The CBI’s move comes after its raids in 34 places in Delhi and Tamil Nadu on December 15. The agency is required to submit a progress report with the Supreme Court by February. “We have issued notices to A Raja and Radia under section 160 of the CrPC to join the investigation.  

Besides, former telecom regulatory authority of India (TRAI) chief Pradip Baijal was questioned today in connection with the scam,’’ said Vineeta Thakur, CBI’s spokesperson. Under this section, the person concerned is asked to share whatever information he/she may have about a case.

Baijal, a 1966 batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, was grilled for over four hours at the CBI headquarters in the capital on Monday. ``I have come here to give my clarification to the CBI, Beyond this, I cannot say anything,’’ Baijal told reporters after coming out of the agency’s office.

The CBI had raided the houses of Baijal last week and seized some incriminating documents.