The Supreme Court of India began hearing the petition challenged by CBI Chief Alok Verma. The petition challenged the decision of Centre removing Alok Verma from his power and sending him on forced leave.

During the hearing, lawyer of Alok Verma informed that the present case is concerned with a director appointed for two years term. He asked a question to the court — Whether a two-year tenure could be breached.

Alok Verma probe to be done in 2 weeks, SC

Chief justice of India Ranjan Gogai has asked CVC to complete probe against CBI director Alok Verma in two weeks. The CJI also noted that the matter will be examined by the Attorney General (AG). He said, “Only thing that needs to be worked out is the interim arrangements.”

Probe to be done by retired Supreme Court Judge

During the hearing, the court said, “The probe would be conducted under the supervision of a retired judge of this court. Justice AK Patnaik is requested to accept the assignment and ensure enquiry is completed within the time frame.”

Interim Chief M Nageswar Rao shall not take any major decision, SC

Interim CBI chief M Nageswar Rao will only perform routine tasks that are essential to keep the CBI functioning. He will not take any major decisions, rules Supreme Court.

The matter has been listed after the Diwali break on November 12.

The CVC passed an order to remove Verma of his duties till the probe against him is over. On the same day, centre passes a similar order. Centre on the same day further appointed his successor as an interim measure, says Nariman drawing court’s attention to the law, the amended Delhi Police Special establishment act.

Supreme Court puts interim CBI chief’s decisions including mass transfers on hold

During the hearing, the Supreme Court has put a hold on all the decisions taken by CBI interim chief M Nageswar Rao. The decisions, which included the mass transfer of CBI officers investigating corruption charges against Verma’s deputy Rakesh Asthana are scrutinised. The SC further ruled that all decisions taken by M Nageswar Rao have to be placed before the court in a sealed cover.

Notably, it is alleged that Asthana took Rs 3 crore bribe from Satish Rana, who has in the past been on CBI radar after being associated with a meat exporter, Moin Qureshi. The CBI on October 15, booked Asthana in a bribery case.

Following the revelations, CBI director Alok Verma and special director Rakesh Asthana were sent on leave on Wednesday.

Importantly, CBI director Alok Verma dragged the government to Supreme Court. He filed a petition challenging government’s decision of removing him from his power and sending him on compulsory leave.

Also read: CBI vs CBI: Supreme Court to hear Alok Verma’s plea against government order