2G scam: court refuses bail to Shahid Balwa, two others

2G scam: court refuses bail to Shahid Balwa, two others  

Swan Telecom promoter Shahid Usman Balwa, an accused in 2G spectrum allocation scam, was on Tuesday refused bail by a Delhi court which said he has failed to "make out a case" for his release from jail in view of the apprehension that witnesses could be influenced.

Special CBI Judge O P Saini, exclusively dealing with the 2G case, also dismissed the bail pleas of Balwa's cousin, Asif Balwa and Rajeev Aggarwal, accused of facilitating Rs 200 crore bribe to Kalaignar TV in which DMK MP Kanimozhi holds 20 per cent share.

"Considering the magnitude of the crime, nature and enormity of the allegations, character of evidence on record and the apprehension that the witnesses may be influenced in case if the acused are released on bail, I have no hesitation in holding that acused have failed to make out a case for bail.

Bail applications are without merits and the same are dismissed," the judge said.

The court also took into account CBI's apprehensions that the accused, if released on bail at this stage, may influence the witnesses as many of the them are employed in their companies.

Asif Balwa and Rajeev Agarwal are directors of Kusegaon Fruits and Vegetables Pvt Ltd in which Shahid Balwa also holds a stake.