Only states that have lot to hide fear CBI: Jaitley

A day after the Andhra Pradesh government withdrew 'general consent', which it had given to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said only states that have a lot to hide are averse to the investigation agency.

"Only those who have a lot to hide have taken the step of not letting CBI come to their state. There is no sovereignty of any state in the matter of corruption. Andhra move is not motivated by any particular case but in fear of what is likely to happen," the Union Minister said.

As per rules under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act of 1946, in accordance with which the CBI was formed, the investigating agency has complete jurisdiction over Delhi.

But it can also enter the other states with the 'General Consent' of that state's government. In the absence of the permission now, the CBI cannot interfere with any case that takes place within the limits of Andhra Pradesh.

The Chandrababu Naidu-led Andhra Pradesh government has also vested the state investigation agency with the responsibility of CBI duties in the state.The Andhra government Order was passed on November 8, three months after it gave the general consent to the CBI to exercise its powers and jurisdiction in the state.

The development comes after Naidu pulled out from the National Democratic Alliance over demands for 'special status' to Andhra Pradesh. In the aftermath, he accused the Centre of bringing down the reputation and credibility of CBI for its own gains.