Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
2mo ago

CBI Reopens Bofors Case, Seeks US Help for New Evidence

The Indian agency has issued a formal request to the US, aiming to gather fresh details from private investigator Michael Hershman about the 1980s bribery scandal.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has sent a letter rogatory or judicial request to the US seeking information and evidence from private investigator Michael Hershman, who has expressed willingness to share fresh information (AFP File Photo)
Bofors howitzers played a role in India’s victory in the 1999 Kargil war. (AFP)
Image

Overview

  • The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has sent a judicial request, or Letter Rogatory, to the United States to obtain evidence from Michael Hershman, who has expressed willingness to share new information on the Bofors bribery scandal.
  • The Bofors case, which dates back to the 1980s, involves allegations of a ₹64-crore bribe in a ₹1,437-crore deal for 155mm howitzers between India and Swedish firm AB Bofors.
  • Michael Hershman, a private investigator, had previously alleged that the Congress government derailed the investigation and has offered to provide details to the CBI.
  • The CBI reopened the case in 2018, citing Hershman's claims, after initially closing it in 2011 due to insufficient evidence.
  • The Bofors howitzers, despite the controversy, played a key role in India's 1999 Kargil war victory, but the scandal delayed modernization of Indian artillery for decades.