Apprised then PM about 2G spectrum policy: Raja tells court

Former communications minister A. Raj told a special court here on Monday that he informed then prime minister Manmohan Singh and then cabinet ministers about the procedure of 2G spectrum allocation decisions as he contested the prosecution theory of conspiracy against him.

While commencing final argument in the case, Raja told the Central Bureau of Investigation special judge that he has not favoured any telecom companies in getting spectrum licence.

Raja's counsel Manu Sharma told the court that his client has maintained transparency in policy related to spectrum of allocation of 2G spectrum licences and even the cut-off date was avaialble in public domain.

Discarding the theory of conspiracy levelled against his client, Sharma said that conspiracy is done either keeping other in dark or in a secret way but here "Raja has apprised the then prime minister Manmohan Singh and other cabinet ministers about the decisions related to allocation of spectrum licences".

Terming CBI charges based on interpretation, he said that the decision was taken to increase competition and teledensity in the country.

He added that Raja's actions do not amount to abuse of official position or any other offence.

Raja will continue final argument on Tuesday too.

The CBI while advancing the final argument in the case alleged that Raja misled then prime minister Manmohan Singh on policy matters related to 2G spectrum allocation.

According to the CBI, Raja was biased in allocating 2G mobile airwaves and operating licences to telecom firms, causing a huge loss to the state exchequer.

The court framed charges on October 22, 2011, against 14 accused and three companies under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act.

All the accused, including Raja, are out on bail.