L-G okays probe against Satyendar Jain in CCTV graft case
New Delhi, July 6
Lieutenant-Governor (L-G) VK Saxena has given his nod to initiate an investigation under the Prevention of Corruption Act against former Delhi minister Satyendar Jain. The decision comes in light of allegations that Jain received a bribe of Rs 7 crore in connection with a project worth Rs 571 crore aimed at installing CCTVs across 70 Assembly constituencies in Delhi.
The Directorate of Vigilance (DoV) had proposed that the matter be referred under Section 17-A of the PoC Act, 1998, to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs for approval, enabling the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) to conduct a thorough investigation.
Jain, who held the portfolios of PWD minister, GNCTD, and was the nodal authority for the CCTV project, is accused of accepting the bribe to waive off a penalty of Rs 16 crore imposed on a company for delay in installing 1.4 lakh CCTV cameras in Delhi.
The corruption allegations surfaced following a complaint by an employee of the company in September 2019, alleging that vendors associated with the firm arranged the bribe for Jain. The ACB, in its investigation, corroborated these allegations through secret sources and statements.
The DoV, after reviewing the evidence, concluded that a prima facie case under the PoC Act exists against Jain. Despite responses from the PWD and the firm, which cited internal matters and confidentiality, the investigation is set to proceed.
In response, the AAP has vehemently criticised the decision, alleging a political conspiracy orchestrated by the BJP.
AAP minister Atishi condemned the move, stating, “The BJP continues its relentless campaign to undermine the Delhi Government through conspiracies and false accusations.” She pointed out that over 200 cases have been filed against AAP leaders in the past decade, suggesting a pattern of targeted harassment.
She emphasised, “Despite numerous investigations, not a single instance of corruption has been proven against us. The Aam Aadmi Party stands firm in its commitment to transparency and integrity in governance.”
Regarding the allegations against Jain, Atishi dismissed them as baseless, asserting, “This is yet another fabricated case aimed at tarnishing the image of AAP leaders.” She reiterated that the party remains resolutely honest and committed to serving the people of Delhi.
‘Received Rs 7 crore for waiving penalty’
According to Raj Niwas officials, it has been alleged that former Delhi minister Satyendar Jain received a bribe of Rs 7 crore for waiving a penalty of Rs 16 crore imposed on a company for delay in the installation of CCTVs in 70 Assembly constituencies of Delhi.
