Modi using CBI as political weapon, alleges AAP

Slamming appointment of Rakesh Asthana as Central Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) interim director, the AAP on Friday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was using the agency as a political weapon just like the erstwhile Congress government.

Aam Aadmi Party Delhi convener Dilip Pandey said that Asthana's appointment, announced as incumbent Anil Sinha's tenure ended on Friday, proved that Modi government's intention was to use CBI as a political tool.

"It seems that the government wants to maneuver investigation of some serious case as per its own wishes for which they have brought the the Gujarat cadre officer at the crucial post," he said.

Asthana, a 1984 Gujarat cadre Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, had been the Commissioner of Police in Vadodara and Surat in Gujarat. He also headed a special investigation team (SIT) that probed the burning of Sabarmati Express train in which 59 people were burnt to death near Godhra railway station in February 2002.

"According to rules, Supreme Court Chief Justice, Leader of Opposition and the Prime Minister collectively appoint the CBI chief. But Modi has broken all rules to appoint the officer close to him at the post," he alleged.

Pandey demanded that appointment of Asthana be withdrawn and the right officer be appointed at his place as per rules.

--IANS

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