The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved judgement on the petition filed by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Director Alok Verma, challenging the government’s decision to divest him of all powers and sending him on leave.
The apex court questioned government’s move to divest Verma of his powers.
While hearing the plea, the bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi questioned the government’s sudden decision on October 23 night, despite being told by the Attorney General that circumstances culminating in the decision began months before in July. The bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, sought to know why the government failed to consult a larger panel before taking action against the CBI officers.
“Why government failed to consult a larger panel before taking action against the CBI officers,” it said.
During the hearing, the apex Court said the government’s decisions should be taken in the interest of the institution.
Gogoi concluded the arguments on behalf of Verma, Centre, Central Vigilance Commission and others who were party in the matter.
Moreover, the top court heard the petition moved by NGO Common Cause which had sought court-monitored SIT probe into allegations of corruption against various CBI officials including Special Director Rakesh Asthana.
