CBI grills model again on chitfund scam

BHUBANESWAR: The CBI today interrogated a Mumbai based model and tele serial producer for the fourth time in 18 days for her alleged link with Artha Tatwa Group, accused of duping investors in the multi-crore chit fund scam.

Preeti Bhatia had appeared before the investigating agency along with her lawyer yesterday too and was put to questioning further today, CBI sources said.

After about the three-hour long grilling, Bhatia told reporters that she had nothing to do with any scam.

Asked about reports that she had taken Rs 4 crore from Artha Tatwa Group, she said: "I am not involved in any stupid chit (fund) scam."

The CBI, which has been probing the money circulation of the AT Group, summoned Bhatia after being informed that the chief of Artha Tatwa Group Pradeep Sethi had invested in serial and movie production through her.

Allegations have been made that the Artha Tatwa Group had put money into Odiya film industry, Bollywood and serial productions through a Mumbai-based production house.

CBI had raided Bhatia's house in Mumbai in August.