CVC likely to summon officials related to CWG scam

New Delhi: Irked by delay in response to queries raised by it, the Central Vigilance Commissioner may summon officials of Union and State governments in connection with alleged financial irregularities in different Commonwealth Games related projects.

Official sources said the decision in this regard has been finalised after the Commission noticed the lackadaisical approach of some departments and officials. "The Commission has the power of a court to call upon officials, documents and witnesses for its enquiries. We may send summons after deciding on formalities," a senior CVC official, who did not wish to be identified, said. He said the measure will help the Commission to complete its probe on time. In reply to an RTI query filed by journalists, the anti-corruption watchdog had said that it was looking into at least 22 projects being carried out in the national capital. Out of which, six were being implemented by Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, four by Delhi Development Authority, three by Organising Committee and two each by Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Central Public Works Department and Government of Delhi.One work each relating to Department of Commerce, Indian Meteorological Department and New Delhi Municipal Council is also being enquired, the RTI reply had said. The anti-corruption watchdog has also asked its Chief Vigilance Officers (CVOs) posted with relevant ministries or departments to coordinate and help them in speeding up the probe. "The CVOs are folllowing the matter on almost a daily basis. We are hopeful of completing our findings soon," the official said. "Complaints regarding alleged irregularities in purchase of air conditioners, furniture and kitchen equipment for Commonwealth Games Village were received and being looked into," the Commission said.Sources said the CVC has earlier asked agencies to submit their reports by October. They said repeated reminders have also been sent to CPWD, MCD, DDA, PWD, Sports Ministry and OC to submit their reports which are not duly acknowledged and pending for action. "There have been some departments which have not yet responded in the expected manner. We may summon official or records," the official said. The Comptroller and Auditor General of India, Enforcement Directorate and Income Tax department are also conducting separate inquiries into the matter related to financial discrepancies and bunglings. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has appointed a high level committee headed by former CAG V K Shunglu to inquire and report within three months time its findings on the issue. PTI