Delhi HC raps CBI for delay in probe against ex-special director Rakesh Asthana

The Delhi HC asked CBI Director to present before it on February 10 if the investigation agency would not be able to complete its investigation into the Rakesh Asthana case. The court passed the order as CBI has already taken too much time and asked for more to complete its investigation.

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court Wednesday asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Director to be present before it on February 10 if the agency fails to complete an investigation into the bribery case allegedly involving its then special director Rakesh Asthana.

Justice Vibhu Bakhru pulled up the CBI for repeatedly seeking an extension of time to complete its investigation in the case.

The court passed the order while hearing the CBI's plea seeking further extension of time to complete the probe and said if the probe is completed before the next date of hearing, that is February 10, its application would become infructuous and no assistance of any officer would be required by the court.

Asthana and two others were booked on allegations of criminal conspiracy, corruption and criminal misconduct under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act.