HC pulls up CBI for its failure to investigate fertiliser scam

Patna, July 19 (UNI) Patna High Court today directed the CBI to file an affidavit stating the reasons for not taking up the investigation of the alleged fertliser subsidy scam despite the recommendation of the state government in this regard, five years back.

A division bench of the court, comprising Justice Narain Rai and Justice K K Mandal, passed the order while hearing a writ petition filed in this connection.

The petitioner alleged that during 1994-98, fertiliser manufacturers gulped down crores of rupees in connivance with the state government and union government officials, released against the subsidy head, meant for farmers.

On a public interest petition, Patna High Court had directed the CBI on February 9, 2002 to investigate the case but despite the lapse of more than five years, it was yet to begin investigation in the matter.

UNI