CBI arrests defence firm officials in leak case

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken action against officials from two defense-related companies in connection with an alleged bribery scandal involving sensitive defense information. On Wednesday, the agency announced the arrest of Anil Kumar, the executive director of state-run Munitions India Limited (MIL), and Ashish Kansal, the CEO of SMPP, an ammunition manufacturing firm. Additionally, Kumar's brother B Harshavardhan was also apprehended in relation to the case.

According to the CBI, the executives allegedly accepted illegal gratification in exchange for extending official favors and disclosing sensitive defense information related to a Rs 500 crore supply contract. The agency alleged that this unauthorized disclosure could compromise the nation's strategic and security interests, undermining the integrity of defense-related processes and posing serious risks to national security and public safety.

During searches conducted at the accused individuals' homes in Pune, Mysuru, Bengaluru, and Delhi, authorities recovered approximately Rs 1.73 crore and Rs 50 lakh in cash, respectively, along with incriminating documents. SMPP CEO Ashish Kansal was alleged to have maintained regular contact with Kumar regarding the official contract awarded to SMPP for ammunition supply to MIL over a one-year period. Additionally, Ravit Kumar Tewatia, an employee of SMPP, was also allegedly in contact with Kumar as part of the conspiracy.

The CBI registered the case on Monday, accusing Anil Kumar of accepting illegal gratification while serving as Executive Director at MIL in Pune. He was allegedly involved in demand and acceptance of bribes in exchange for official favors, while his brother B Harshavardhan and SMPP CEO Ashish Kansal were arrested in connection with the case.