CBI director's removal illegal: Sharad Yadav

Opposition leader Sharad Yadav Wednesday hit out at the government over CBI Director Alok Verma's removal, saying it is "constitutionally, morally and politically wrong and illegal".

He said in a statement that the decision was in violation of rules laid down by the Supreme Court that only a selection commission, comprising the prime minister, the chief justice of India and the leader of the largest opposition party can decide on suspending or removing the CBI chief.

"Whatever has been done in the late night by the government is constitutionally, morally and politically wrong, illegal and tantamount to interference in the functioning of the independent body," Yadav said.

A late-night order on Tuesday from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent Verma and his deputy Rakesh Asthana, who were at loggerheads, on leave.

Yadav alleged that Verma was removed as he was collecting documents relating to the Rafale aircraft deal.