New Delhi: Central Bureau of Investigation Additional Director Rakesh Asthana has been appointed as the agency’s interim director, as incumbent Anil Sinha’s tenure ended on Friday, an official statement said.
Asthana is a 1984 Gujarat cadre Indian Police Service (IPS) officer believed to be close to Prime Minister Modi and BJP national President Amit Shah. Asthana supervised the initial probe into the Godhra train incident.
“The competent authority has approved assignment of additional charge of the post of Director, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), to Rakesh Asthana, IPS, Additional Director, CBI with effect from the date of relinquishment of charge by Anil Kumar Sinha, IPS on completion of his tenure with immediate effect and until further orders,” said an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training.
Asthana was elevated as the second in command in CBI two days ago. One among the front runners for the post, Special Director R K Dutta was moved to home ministry as special secretary.
Sinha completes his two year tenure today. For the first time in 10 years, CBI will not have new CBI chief.
CBI Director is chosen by a collegium comprising the Prime minister, Leader of the Opposition in Loksabha and the Chief Justice of India.
