Calcutta High Court Rules on CBI’s Authority
KOLKATA: In a significant ruling, the Calcutta High Court has determined that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) does not require the consent of state governments to initiate preliminary probes against officials of the central government and public sector undertakings (PSUs) operating within the state. This decision was announced on Monday by Justice Tirthankar Ghosh.
Background of the Case
The court’s ruling comes in response to a report submitted by the CBI, which indicated that an investigation involving State Bank of India (SBI) officials was pending due to the lack of state sanction. The CBI’s Deputy Inspector General (DIG) had communicated with the SBI’s regional manager on August 7, 2024, regarding an application for sanction that was awaiting response from the additional chief secretary.
Judicial Insights
Justice Ghosh emphasized that both the High Court and the Supreme Court had previously established that state consent is unnecessary for the CBI to proceed with its investigations. He remarked, “If the probe agency seeks sanction from the state, the application will go to the dustbin.” This statement reinforces the CBI’s autonomy in such matters, ensuring that it can effectively carry out its investigative duties without undue delays.
Conclusion
This ruling is pivotal for the CBI’s operational framework, allowing it to act swiftly against potential corruption without being hindered by bureaucratic red tape. For those looking to stay informed about legal updates and more, visit Looffers.com for the latest news and offers.
