Coal block allocation: CBI registers three new cases

The CBI Tuesday registered three new cases in its ongoing probe into the coal block allocation, naming a Chhattisgarh-based company and others.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered the cases on charges of criminal conspiracy, cheating and criminal misconduct against Raipur-based SKS Ispat and Powers Ltd., its promoters and directors Anil Gupta and Deepak Gupta along with the 35th screening committee members.

The cases are related to the allocation of the Fatehpur coal block in Raigarh, the Vijay Central coal block in Bilaspur in Chhattisgarh, and Rawanwara coal block in Chindwara in Madhya Pradesh.

According to a CBI official, it is alleged that the company misrepresented on aspect of preparedness and was ineligible on aspect on net worth.

"It has been alleged that 35th screening committee deliberately did not follow the guidelines and showed undue favour to the company," the official said.

The government officials were charged with abusing their official positions.

The CBI also conducted raids in Mumbai, Raigarh and Raipur in Chhattisgarh, and Delhi.

The agency has till now registered 26 first information reports (FIRs) and five preliminary inquiries, including this fresh case. It has filed closure reports in four FIRs and two charge sheets.