CBI seeks custodial interrogation of Chidambaram in INX Media case

Congress leader P Chidambaram, arrested by CBI, was produced before a Delhi Court on Thursday in INX Media corruption case and ncy has sought his 5-day custodial interrogation to unearth "larger conspiracy". Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing CBI in case, argued that Chidambaram entered into a criminal conspiracy with ors in scam. Chidambaram was arrested after issuance of n-bailable warrant against him.

"He is t cooperating in investigation," Mehta said, adding that he has been evasive in replies and grave offence was committed. hearing is taking place before Special Judge Ajay Kumar Kuhar. Mehta said it is a serious and monumental case of money laundering. He said Chidambaram's custodial interrogation was necessary to unearth "quid pro quo and larger conspiracy" and he is required to be confronted with documents. Mehta placed Delhi High Court's judgement dismissing Chidambaram's anticipatory bail plea and also referred to observations made in it.

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He said charge sheet has t been filed in case yet and it is at pre-charge sheet st, refore, "we need material which Chidambaram is holding". "Effective investigation is possible only in custodial interrogation," he argued. Mehta contended that serious, active and informed role of accused is made out and money trail is made out and has to be probed. Chidambaram's custodial interrogation required to get answer of certain questions for effective probe, he said.

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Soon after entering courtroom, 73-year-old Chidambaram was seen having discussion with his party leaders and senior advocates Kapil Sibal, Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Vivek Tankha. Chidambaram's family members, including his wife Nalini and son Karti, are also in courtroom along with or senior advocates including Dayan Krishnan. Heavy security arrangement has been done outside courtroom. He was arrested late Wednesday night from his Jor Bagh residence. CBI had registered an FIR on May 15, 2017, alleging irregularities in Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance granted to INX Media group for receiving overseas funds of Rs 305 crore in 2007 during Chidambaram's tenure as finance minister. reafter, ED lodged a money laundering case in this regard in 2018. 

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