CBI has been rapped by a court here for following a "dual policy" in arresting some and letting off others who are accused of committing similar or more serious offences in a same case.
The court "strongly advised" CBI Director to formulate a policy and guidelines on the issue saying, "such (existing) policy of CBI not only causes suspicion on their working but it is also very disheartening for the common citizens as to why CBI chooses to arrest a few and let off many without any valid reason."
It also observed that it is not known as to whether the CBI has any such policy which they follow for arresting or not arresting a particular person accused of committing similar or more serious offences than those who are taken into custody by them in the same case.
"In case there is no clear policy, it is strongly advised and directed that Director, CBI, New Delhi, must make a policy and guidelines and issue general instructions regarding arrest in a case qua accused who are guilty of similar or more serious offences than those who have been arrested by CBI," Special CBI Judge Swarana Kanta Sharma said.
"It will be appropriate and justified for CBI to give reasons as to why they have chosen not to arrest a particular person and have decided to arrest the others with similar or less serious allegations," the judge said.
The observations came while rejecting the anticipatory bail plea of two persons who are allegedly involved in a fraud and corruption case of over Rs 200 crore. Some of the accused in the case have already been arrested by the CBI.
The court directed that copy of its order be sent to the CBI Director for necessary action and compliance.
