SC questions govt on Thomas' appointment

New Delhi, Jan 18: The apex court, which had earlier examined the file relating to Thomas' appointment as CVC, sought the explanation from the government. Apex court issued Thomas a notice along with the Center on various petitions, which contended that he did not fulfill the criteria for holding such an important and sensitive post.

"We have gone through the file. We will keep the matter for final hearing," the bench also comprising justices K S Radhakrishnan and Swatanter Kumar had said while posting the matter for hearing on Jan 27.

"Let them file their affidavit," the bench said, while also asking them to complete the process of filing replies and counter replies and other written submissions by the next date of hearing.

Subsequently, Thomas gave an undertaking to the Supreme Court that he would not supervise the CBI's investigations into the 2G spectrum scam.

The petitions have contended that Thomas was considered for the crucial post despite objection from the Leader of the Opposition.

The petitioners have sought the court's direction to declare Thomas' appointment as illegal contending that there was violation of Section 4 of the CVC Act as the Prime Minister and the Home Minister insisted on his name despite objection by the Leader of the Opposition, which shows the government had decided in advance to appoint him.

Hence, the Leader of Opposition Sushma swaraj was forced to record her dissent.

PTI