The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet against former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda in connection with the alleged illegal allotment of an industrial plot in Panchkula. The chargesheet was submitted in a special CBI court in Panchkula on Friday, naming Hooda and several others as accused.
Case Details
The case pertains to the allotment of a prime industrial plot in Panchkula's Sector 29 to a private company during Hooda's tenure as chief minister. The CBI alleges that the plot was allotted in a manner that caused a loss to the state exchequer. The agency has accused Hooda of criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and corruption under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Other Accused
Apart from Hooda, the chargesheet also names former Haryana Chief Secretary D.S. Dhesi, former Haryana Industrial Development Corporation (HSIIDC) Managing Director M.L. Tayal, and other officials. The private company, which allegedly benefited from the allotment, has also been named.
Investigation
The CBI had registered a preliminary inquiry in 2015 and later converted it into a regular case in 2016. The investigation revealed that the plot was allotted at a price lower than the prevailing market rate, causing a loss of several crores to the state government. The agency has claimed that the allotment was made in violation of the HSIIDC's policies and procedures.
Political Reactions
The Congress party, to which Hooda belongs, has termed the chargesheet as politically motivated. Party leaders have accused the BJP-led central government of using investigative agencies to target opposition leaders. Hooda himself has maintained his innocence, stating that the allegations are baseless and that he will fight the case legally.
Legal Proceedings
The special CBI court has taken cognizance of the chargesheet and has issued summons to the accused. The next hearing is scheduled for next month. The case is expected to be a significant legal battle, given Hooda's stature as a former chief minister and senior Congress leader.
The CBI's action comes amid a series of investigations against opposition leaders, raising questions about the impartiality of federal agencies. However, the agency has maintained that it is acting based on evidence and in accordance with the law.
