In an alleged leak of sensitive data on submarine retrofitting projects, the Central Bureau of Investigation has filed its first charge sheet against six people, including two on-duty naval officers.
As one of the quickest investigations into defence corruption, the charge sheet was filed within 60 days after the first arrest on September 3 in order to ensure that the accused would not receive an easy bail hearing. In its charge sheet, which was filed before a special CBI court at Rouse Avenue, the CBI slapped section 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of the IPC and provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
This case began as a result of information the agency received about on-duty officers working at the Western Headquarters of Navy on retrofitting Russian Kilo class submarines receiving monetary benefits from retired military personnel.
The CBI started its investigation the day after filing the case on September 2. Two retired navy officers were arrested during the searches, Commodore Randeep Singh and Commander SJ Singh, who works for a Korean submarine company. Further investigations led to the arrest of Commander Ajeet Kumar Singh and another commander.
The investigation by the CBI is underway and the Indian Navy has assured complete support.
