Two granted bail

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Apr 8 : The Special Judge Lok Ayukta Manipur today released two officials (one retired) of the MSPCL who were allegedly involved in the awarding of contract work for the construction of a power substation and other civil works at Chakpikarong under  NLCPR.
They were released on furnishing a PR bond of Rs 1 lakh each.
Accused Aribam Rajendra (63), the then AE of Lokchao Sub-Station and now serving as DGM/Transmission Division III and Okram Yaiskul, s/o (L) Chamu of Thongju Part II, the then SO Transmission Construction Division 1 were produced before the Court on completion of their police custody period.
The Special PP submitted that two accused could not explain why there was a mismatch in the date of dispatch and receipt of materials during interrogation.
It was further submitted that both the accused claimed they were working under the pressure and guidance of the then Executive Engineer who is also an accused in the main FIR.
No reason was given for non-maintenance of Hindrance Register. The MB and Bill entries were also done on the direction of the then Executive Engineer, the Special PP said and maintained that the accused may tamper material evidence if they are released.
The Special PP then prayed for remanding the accused to judicial custody.
The defence counsel, on the other hand, submitted that both the accused are senior citizens and have severe medical problems which need proper treatment.
The defence counsel also said that the two accused will abide by any condition imposed by the Court.
The Court after hearing both parties and on perusal of the case record granted bail to the two accused on the condition that they appear before the IO everyday starting from tomorrow and not leave the State without the permission of the Court among others.
The Court also directed the IO of the case Shrey Vats to complete the investigation of the case within six months from the date of registration of the case at the Crime Branch Police Station.