CBI submits probe report
Onkar Singh in New Delhi
The CBI has submitted its much-awaited report on its investigations into betting, and match-fixing, to Federal Minister for Sports Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa.
The 162-page report, enclosed in two sealed covers, was handed over on Monday afternoon, around 1420 hours, by a CBI team led by Special Director R N Sawani, who
headed the six-month-long investigation into the scandal. The CBI had started its probe on May 2, 2000, on directives from the Federal Government.
Dhindsa said that the report will be kept under wraps for now. He will, the minister said, study it extensively and also consult legal experts, before tabling it in Parliament during the upcoming winter session.
The report is believed to indict a large number of cricketers, both Indian and international, as also some officials, bookies, and punters.
At least five Indian cricketers, including two former captains,
and an ex-physiotherapist are among the people who have been found
guilty of match-fixing and betting by the CBI.
The report highlights specific matches that, in the opinion of the CBI, were fixed in a variety of ways including the doctoring of pitches, and last minute team changes at the behest of various bookies.
CBI sources said that while the evidence gathered was substantial enough to point to the guilt of those named, the bureau may not seek their prosecution as cricketers do not fall under the 'public servants' category and are not, therefore, within the ambit of the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA). The CBI, however, added that the final decision on whether or not to prosecute would have to be taken by the government.
The report also contains suggestions for improving the functioning of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, in order to guard against future instances of corruption.
CBI sources refused to divulge names and other details, saying merely that ''The report contains the names of some cricketers, officials and bookies.''
While prosecution seems to be ruled out, cricketers found guilty face the possiblity of life bans, and the further prospect of their names and records from the books. The ICC had, earlier this year, decreed that as the punishment for any player found guilty of betting and match-fixing, and the BCCI has indicated that it will honour the governing body's decision.
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