Arvind Kejriwal announces internal probe by retired judges against three aides

New Delhi: With allegations levelled against its own members, India Against Corruption today announced setting up of a three-member panel of retired judges to probe the charges against its prominent members, including Prashant Bhushan and Anjali Damania.

Former Delhi High Court Chief Justice AP Shah, Justice BH Marlapalle (Retd) of Bombay High Court and Justice Jaspal Singh (Retired) of Delhi High Court are the internal Lokpal for Kejriwal's yet-to-be named party.

Kejriwal said it has been alleged that Prashant Bhushan has done irregularities in buying land in Himachal Pradesh, that Mayank Gandhi has links with builders and questions have been raised against Anjali Damania's land deals in Maharashtra.

"We have from time to time requested the government to set up an independent enquiry to investigate into the matter and give us double the punishment than prescribed if found guilty. Unfortunately, the government has been more interested in mud-slinging than setting up an independent probe.

"Therefore, we have formed an independent ombudsmen consisting of three retired judges enjoying a reputation of high integrity and independence to inquire into any charges made against key members of IAC and they will probe Bhushan, Gandhi and Damania," Kejriwal said.

He said they are sending their cases to the three retired judges on Monday and would request them to expeditiously inquire into these charges and give their report as early as possible and within 3 months.

Kejriwal said the ombudsmen would be requested to examine in depth the allegations and material against IAC members, their defense and give a report on whether the allegations show any illegal or immoral act being committed by IAC members.

"If any member is found guilty of any illegal or immoral activity he would be expected to resign from the proposed party," he said.