MHA backs CBI, endorses repatriation of a DIG associated with coal scam probe

NEW DELHI: In what came as a shot in the arm for CBI, which wishes to repatriate DIGs associated with the infamous coal scam since inception, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) endorsed repatriation of one of the DIGs owing to conclusion of his deputation tenure.

This has come to light after the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) wrote to MHA last month seeking “cadre clearance” on sending one of the DIGs associated with the probe of coal scam to Austria. In its letter, written in the last week of June, DoPT sought cadre clearance for “nomination” of Amit Kumar, DIG, CBI for attending the 8th session of “Implementation Review Group (IRG) meeting” which was to be held from June 19 to 23 in Vienna, Austria.

Denying the same, MHA in its response wrote “required cadre clearance is denied for subject purpose”. Kumar’s deputation tenure has expired.


However, it is pertinent to mention here that the special Bench of Supreme Court, presiding over coal probe, had made it clear in May 2013 that no officer should be repatriated without Court’s permission since this would case “unwanted suspicion”.

Denying cadre clearance, the MHA wrote “it is further mentioned here that there is no clear cut order of Supreme Court for continuation of Amit Kumar in CBI beyond approved tenure”. Thus, MHA suggested to DoPT to “either get clear order of Supreme Court in extension of deputation tenure of Amit Kumar in CBI or release the officer”. ET has accessed the MHA’s letter.