Key witnesses in 2G case get extra security cover

Jolted by the sudden and violent death of Sadiq Batcha, a close associate of former telecom minister A Raja and a key witness in the 2G spectrum case, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has secured protection for seven other prosecution witnesses in the case. 

The witnesses, who are crucial to CBI's case against the accused in the mega scam, have been provided security cover by the centre as well as by state governments where necessary.

The CBI had earlier written to the ministry of home affairs saying that ''the matter is sensitive and influential people are involved in it. And there is grave threat' to their life so security should be provided to them''. 

Special public prosecutor U U Lalit had also told the CBI court in New Delhi on Wednesday that there is a serious threat to the life of these witnesses.

Apparently, the CBI fears that those persons accused in the case, being influential people, may cause physical harm to those who are likely to depose against them in the court. Since the witnesses have given statements against Raja and others and are due to appear in court, the CBI clearly does not want to take chances with their safety.

The CBI has made as many as 44 witnesses in the case. A majority of the witnesses are government officials who had served during Raja's stint in the telecom ministry.