CWG scam: CBI to file charge sheet in QBR next month

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is likely to file its charge sheet in the Queen's Baton Relay (QBR) scam related to the Commonwealth Games soon even if it does not get the statement of one of the London-based accused in the case.

The CBI was waiting for the crucial statement of London-based Ashis Patel, owner of firms -- AM Films and AM Car and Van Hire -- which were given contracts during the relay at exhorbitant rates, to file the charge sheet in the case.

However, despite the long wait, the agency has not got the statement through formal diplomatic channels because of legal processes of the UK.

The agency has now decided to go ahead with the filing of the charge sheet as it knows summary of the statement given by Patel through informal means, CBI sources said.

The CBI had filed cases against Patel and three former officials of the Organising Committee of Commonwealth Games -- T S Darbari, Sanjay Mahendroo and M Jaychandran for alleged forgery and cheating in connection with the award of contracts to Patel's firms at exhorbitant rates during the event held in London in 2009.

All have been granted bail as CBI could not file charge sheet within stipulated time.

CBI had registered two cases against OC officials and Patel on November 15, 2010, but did file charge sheet as it was waiting for replies to its Letters Rogatory from the UK.

The case relates to alleged fraud of transport payments in Queen's Baton Relay during CWG ceremonies held in London.

"It is alleged that in relation to the QBR held on October 29, 2009, the OC awarded the work of transportation to the AM Cars and Van Hire Ltd at exorbitantly high rates without following the standard tender process," the CBI FIR had stated.

While AM Films was awarded work of installing three video screens near the Buckingham Palace, AM Cars had bagged contract for providing logistics.