The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has submitted a closure report in an alleged case of corruption during the tenure of Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar faction) leader Praful Patel as Civil Aviation Minister. The case was registered in May 2017 following a Supreme Court order and the report was filed before a designated special court. The case alleges leasing of aircraft without proper strategy and resulted in a loss of ₹840 crore.
Praful Patel's Corruption Case: CBI Files Closure Report
Background:
Praful Patel, a veteran politician from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), served as Civil Aviation Minister from 2004 to 2011. In 2017, the Supreme Court ordered the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to investigate allegations of corruption against Patel related to aircraft leasing deals during his tenure.
The Allegations:
The CBI investigation focused on allegations that Patel had leased aircraft at inflated prices and without proper approvals. This resulted in alleged losses of over ₹840 crore to Air India Limited (AIL), the national carrier.
The CBI Closure Report:
In a setback to the prosecution, the CBI has recently submitted a closure report to a designated special court. The report states that the Bureau has not found sufficient evidence to prove criminal charges against Patel and other accused in the case.
FAQs:
1. Why did the CBI file a closure report?
The CBI claims that after thorough investigation, it was unable to gather concrete evidence to prove the allegations of corruption against Praful Patel and others.
2. What are the implications of the closure report?
The closure report effectively ends the criminal investigation into the allegations against Patel. If the court accepts the report, the charges against him will be dropped.
3. Can the closure report be challenged?
Yes, the closure report can be challenged by the complainant or other aggrieved parties. They can approach a higher court to have the decision reviewed.
4. What is the political fallout of the closure report?
The closure report has been welcomed by Patel and his supporters as a vindication of his innocence. However, opposition parties are likely to question the CBI's findings and demand further action.
5. What are the past controversies related to Praful Patel?
Patel has been embroiled in several controversies throughout his political career. These include allegations of financial irregularities, land scams, and misuse of public funds. However, he has never been convicted of any criminal charges.
BJP spokesperson Sandeep Varier's defection to the Congress in the final phase of the campaigning for the Palakkad bypoll has come as a major blow to the BJP's State leadership. Varier, who hails from a significant electoral community in the Palakkad constituency, was reportedly one of the top choices for the party's candidate. However, he publicly expressed his displeasure over the candidate selection and garnered ire from the State leadership for his controversial social media posts. The Congress, on the other hand, saw Varier's defection as a political jackpot and welcomed him to their party, sensing a better chance at winning the bypoll.
As campaigning for the Maharashtra Assembly elections comes to an end, Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not hold back in criticizing the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress. He accused the Shiv Sena of giving its remote control to the Congress and challenged them to get the party to praise the late Balasaheb Thackeray. Modi also slammed the Congress for being desperate for power and highlighted the reduced number of terror attacks in India under his government.
Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, has resigned following the release of a report exposing a cover-up of child abuse by John Smyth in the Church of England. Smyth was not brought to justice before his death in 2018, leading to increasing pressure on Welby. The resignation comes after private discussions with King Charles, who is the supreme governor of the Church of England.
The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, expressed his deepest condolences for the loss of innocent children in a devastating fire at a medical college in Uttar Pradesh. The District Magistrate confirmed that the fire, believed to be caused by an electrical short circuit, broke out in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. President Droupadi Murmu and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have also voiced their grief and directed officials to provide proper treatment to the injured infants.
After securing a historic win in Haryana, the BJP has shifted its focus and strategy for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections. With a strong emphasis on reaching out to non-dominant communities and ensuring unity among its allies, the party aims to address anti-incumbency and secure a comeback after a disappointing performance in the Lok Sabha elections. The party's focus on issues of identity and tackling alliances with the opposition, along with appealing to the core Shiv Sena voter base, could prove to be advantageous in their endeavor for a successful campaign.
Vinh Dang, a 54-year-old from Oklahoma City, was arrested by Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Police after being caught with 150 pounds of marijuana. He was released on bond the following day but could face up to 20 years in prison if found guilty. This incident highlights ongoing debates and conflicts surrounding marijuana legalization and enforcement in various states.
To commemorate Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to tribal freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his birth anniversary. The day holds significance as it celebrates the sacrifices of tribal freedom fighters and aims to honor their legacy. On this occasion, popular social media handle "Modi Archive" highlighted Modi's personal and close interaction with the tribal communities and how these experiences have shaped his dedication towards their inclusive growth. From extensive travels to first-hand experiences, the handle reveals the Prime Minister's deep understanding and connection with tribal communities.
The Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, addressed the controversy surrounding his earlier remark about praying to God for a solution to the Ayodhya dispute. He clarified that his faith does not affect his ability to deliver justice to people of different religions. During a recent event in his village, the CJI stated that seeking guidance from divine powers is not the job of judges and called out those who misinterpreted his statement. Chandrachud reiterated that every person has their own way of finding peace and his personal faith does not interfere with his duties as a judge.
A 28-year-old man from Houston, Texas has been arrested and charged with attempting to provide material support to ISIS. Anas Said was caught after new video footage surfaced showing his intention to join and carry out attacks for the designated foreign terrorist organization. Despite previously denying any involvement with ISIS, Said allegedly admitted to multiple connections and expressed desire to return to Lebanon if released from jail. The arrest was not without resistance, as Said threw his phone and tried to run from FBI agents during the arrest in West Houston.
Trump's latest appointments signal a strict immigration policy will continue in his second term. Stephen Miller, a long-time advisor known for his hardline stance on immigration, has been named Deputy Chief of Policy and Tom Homan, a former acting director of ICE, will serve as Border Czar. Miller's influence could lead to major changes for H-1B visa holders, including higher salary requirements and longer processing times. This could have a significant impact on Indian citizens seeking employment in the U.S.