Aircel-Maxis deal: CBI submits status report in SC

The Central Bureau of Investigation submitted its status report in the Aircel-Maxis deal in the Supreme Court on Wednesday. The CBI also told the Supreme Court that domestic investigation in the case is complete.

According to sources, the investigating agency is probing a powerful person in Malaysia in connection with the case. It has, however, claimed to have completed its probe in Malaysia and Mauritius also. The apex court has reportedly made an observation saying prima facie investigation shows nexus.

Former telecom minister Dayanidhi Maran has already been questioned in the case. His ex-secretary Nripendra Mishra had told the CBI that Maran targeted Aircel to benefit his brother's company. Mishra is a key witness for the CBI in its investigations in the Aircel-Maxis deal.

CBI sources had said that SUN TV group owned by Maran's brother Kalanithi benefitted to the tune of Rs 750 crores because of Dayanidhi's tactics. Aircel founder Shivasankaran had testified before the CBI that Maran forced him into selling his stake in Aircel to benefit his own brother Kalanithi Maran. Also the former telecom minister had repeatedly denied granting telecom licences to him.

Mishra had also told the CBI that Maran caused an extraordinary delay in approval of initial spectrum to Shivasankaran's group despite availability and approval by the Defence ministry.