CBI files closure report in case relating to allocation of Talabira-II & III Coal Block

New Delhi, August 29, 2014: The Central Bureau of Investigation has filed a Closure Report in the Court of Special Judge, Patiala House Courts, New Delhi on 28.08.2014 in a case relating to allocation of Talabira-II & III Coal Block to Mumbai based private firm. The case was registered on 14.10.2013 against then Secretary, Ministry of Coal and others.
The evidence collected during investigation did not substantiate the allegations levelled against the persons named in the FIR. The decision to accommodate the said firm of Mumbai in Talabira-II coal block in partial modification of the recommendation of the 25th meeting of the Screening Committee was found to be a case of incorporating both the views of the Screening Committee and the Government of Odisha, taken in larger interest of the country and in view of the federal regal frame work wherein most of the statutory clearances are accorded by the concerned State Governement. The Government of Odisha, had also supported the case of said firm of Mumbai in pursuance to an MoU signed with the said firm to set up an Aluminium Refinery for which a captive power plant was proposed to be set up in Odisha.
The allegation that the proposed 2000 MW power project of Odisha based company could not take off as planned on account of accommodating Mumbai based company in Talabira-II coal block was also not substantiated by investigation.
The public is reminded that the above findings are based on the investigation done by CBI and evidence collected by it.  Under the Indian Law, the accused are presumed to be innocent till their guilt is finally established after a fair trial.
(SK Vyas/Jalandhar)