ACC chief says he is ‘embarrassed’ by questions over graft allegations against Justice Sinha

Anti-Corruption Commission Chairman Iqbal Mahmood says he is embarrassed to answer questions from the media regarding allegations of corruption against former Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha.

Sinha, who resigned from his post last October amid government criticism of his decision to abolish the sixteenth amendment, returned to the media spotlight after publishing a book online that claimed he was forced out and later “exiled” by the government.

The ACC chairman was asked about Sinha’s situation based on a remark from Law Minister Anisul Huq.

On Sunday Law Minister Anisul Huq said the ACC was investigating allegations of corruption against Sinha.

Asked about the progress of the investigation, Iqbal Mahmood said:

“Listen, the honourable minister can say what he likes. His words will not lead to a case, nor an investigation.”

“The government says it is an independent commission. So you should ask him about his remarks.”

“The minister’s words will not influence the ACC. I can guarantee it. No investigation will be launched against someone without proper evidence,” the ACC chairman said.

Asked whether 11 allegations of corruption regarding Justice Sinha had been filed with the ACC, Mahmood said:

“Do you have these allegations with you? Please submit them if you do.”

Anti-Corruption Commission Chairman Iqbal Mahmood speaks at a discussion on the 'Role of FM Radio in Preventing Corruption and Developing Best Practices’ at the organisation’s offices on Monday. Photo: Abdullah Al Momin

The Supreme Court had announced that charges of corruption, money laundering, violations of financial law and moral lapse. The statement said that the justices of the Appellate Division had decided to settle a case with the chief justice over the matter.

Asked whether an investigation was ongoing, Mahmood said:

“I will not answer at this time. You will have to wait. Asking these questions suddenly causes problems because I have to check and understand the situation.”

“You are talking about a significant personality. It is best not to embarrass me about it.”