For fair probe in Tatra deal,BEML CMD suspended

Move comes after a show cause notice was issued for slapping defamation notice against V K Singh.

THE head of defence PSU BEML for 12 years,V R S Natarajan was today suspended as chairman and managing director by the Defence Ministry. This followed a CBI recommendation that he be kept away from the post to ensure a fair investigation against him in the controversial Tatra truck deal and other cases.

The move comes a few days after the Ministry issued a show cause notice to the BEML chief for slapping a defamation notice against former Army Chief Gen V K Singh without its permission. The charge of CMD has been given to P Dwarkanath,the seniormost functional director in BEML.

The government has put the CMD of BEML,V R S Natarajan,under suspension following a recommendation by the CBI, Defence Ministry spokesperson Sitanshu Kar said here.

Story continues below this ad

In Bangalore,Natarajan said he will come out clean in the cases against him. I respect the government decision and I will come out clean, he said.

Natarajan is being questioned over alleged irregularities in procurement and supply of Tatra all-terrain vehicles to the Army. Gen Singh,who retired on May 31,had alleged that he was offered Rs 14 crore bribe by Lt Gen (retd) Tejinder Singh to clear supply of a tranche of 600 sub-standard Tatra trucks from BEML.

On June 6,the Defence Ministry had sought an explanation from Natarajan for serving a legal notice on Gen Singh demanding an apology.

Pharma stocks fall up to 5 per cent after Trump announces 100% tariffs

Business3 hr ago

US President Donald Trump announced a 100% tariff on branded pharmaceutical products starting October 1, causing a decline in pharma stocks. Sun Pharma, Biocon, Abbott India Ltd, Lupin, Cipla, Dr Reddy's, Aurobindo Pharma, and Zydus Lifesciences all saw a decrease in their stock values. Trump also announced tariffs on kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, etc

View all shorts

Live Blog

PHOTOS