The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has summoned Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav as a witness on Thursday, February 29th, in connection with the Uttar Pradesh illegal mining case. This case revolves around allegations of mining leases being issued in violation of the e-tendering process, as directed by the Allahabad High Court.
Under Section 160 of the CrPC, the CBI has called upon Akhilesh Yadav to appear before the federal agency in Delhi for questioning. This section empowers law enforcement officers to summon witnesses as part of an investigation.
The allegations suggest that during the tenure of Akhilesh Yadav as chief minister from 2012 to 2016, public servants permitted illegal mining activities and unlawfully renewed mining licenses despite a ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal.
According to officials, Akhilesh Yadav, who also served as the Minister of Mining for a period, approved 14 leases, with 13 being granted on February 17, 2013, allegedly in violation of the e-tendering process.
As per the FIR, Akhilesh Yadav’s tenure as chief minister from 2012 to 2017 is under scrutiny, particularly his role in the mining portfolio. The FIR further alleges that individuals were allowed to engage in illegal excavation and theft of minor minerals, while also extorting money from leaseholders and drivers transporting these minerals.
In response to the summons, Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav has criticized the BJP, accusing them of resorting to tactics of intimidation and coercion. He has vowed to take action against rebel MLAs who reportedly cross-voted for the BJP in the recent Rajya Sabha elections.
During the Rajya Sabha elections, the BJP secured victory in 8 out of the 10 contested seats, while the SP claimed victory in two seats. The contest was marked by controversy after the BJP nominated an additional candidate, former RS MP Sanjay Seth, leading to allegations of cross-voting by seven SP MLAs.
Do you want to publish your own book?
We will help you get the best options for book publishing related services in India that helps you to self publish your book professionally. Complete set of publishing services. From designing book covers to publishing, promotion to distribution we provide them all. Click here to get free call back from our team consulting you regarding the publishing costs and the process.