CBI files chargesheet in AgustaWestland chopper case, SP Tyagi's name included

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Friday filed chargesheet in connection with its probe into Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland chopper scam.

Reports say that the chargesheet has been filed nine persons, including former IAF chief SP Tyagi.

The CBI had in December 2016 S P Tyagi in connection with the VVIP chopper scam. The CBI said that the arrest was made on the charge that Tyagi and others had accepted illegal gratification for exercising influence through corrupt or illegal means.

The scam is about a contract, signed undet the UPA regime, to purchase 12 Agusta Westland AW-101 helicopters in February, 2010 for the Communication Squadron of Indian Air Force to carry the President, Prime Minister and other VVIPs.

Controversy over the contract came to light on February, 12. 2013 with the arrest of Giuseppe Orsi, the CEO of Finmeccanica, Agusta Westland's parent company by Italian authorities, the following day former defence minister AK Antony ordered a probe into the contract.

The deal was rejected in 2002 as the choppers were unable to fly at an altitude of 6,000 metres. However, in 2005 the same was revised to 4,500 metres. Tyagi had told the CBI that the decision was taken in consultation with officials in the PMO and also the Special Protection Group.

OneIndia News