Open to ordering CBI probe in chit fund scams: SC

“However,before we order the investigation by the CBI,we must know whether the local investigating agency is doing its job diligently or only delaying it on one pretext or another. We will definitely order the CBI probe if we find there was an inordinate delay,” said the Bench.

Meanwhile,appearing for the CBI,Additional Solicitor General Sidharth Luthra said the agency had no reservations in carrying out a broad-based probe and tracking the root of illegal money circulation. He said the only issue could be manpower and the states’ assistance would be sought if CBI is roped in. The court,however,said it would first give the Orissa government an opportunity to satisfy the Bench that it was conducting the probe properly and leaving no stone unturned to ensure a logical end.

Earlier,appearing for the Orissa government,which had been issued a notice on a PIL by Alok Jena,senior advocate Gopal Subramanium contended that the investigations by the state police was in full swing and it had registered more than 150 FIRs. Subramanium said eight chargesheets had also been filed and soon a detailed chart of cases being probed and their status would be made available. Jena’s counsel Suresh Tripathy,however,claimed that the investigating agencies were lax while people went on committing suicides due to massive frauds.

The Bench assured Tripathy that it would make certain that the Orissa government came up with specific details of the case and the probe is done at a proper pace.