2G Spectrum Scam: CBI’s Appeal Case to be Heard Daily from March 18, 2025
The Delhi High Court has announced that it will begin daily hearings on the 2G spectrum scam appeal case filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) starting March 18, 2025. The final verdict on the case is expected to be delivered by June 2025.
This case, which was one of India’s largest political and financial scandals, could have significant implications for Indian politics, the judiciary, and the telecommunications sector.
Background of the 2G Spectrum Scam
What is the 2G Spectrum Allocation?
In the telecommunications industry, spectrum refers to the radio frequencies used for mobile and communication services. It is a valuable resource that is controlled and allocated by the Government of India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
Between 2004 and 2014, under the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government led by the Congress party, the allocation of 2G (Second Generation) mobile spectrum to private telecom companies came under scrutiny. The primary allegation was that the spectrum was not allocated through a transparent auction process, leading to massive financial losses for the government.
Allegations of Corruption
- The “First-Come, First-Served” allocation policy was allegedly misused.
- Several telecom companies received spectrum at heavily undervalued prices, leading to losses of ₹1.76 lakh crore (₹1.76 trillion) for the Indian government.
- The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), in its 2010 audit report, described this as a major financial scam.
Key Accused and Arrests
1. A. Raja
- Former Union Minister of Telecommunications
- Accused of manipulating the spectrum allocation process
- Arrested by the CBI in 2011
- Spent 15 months in Tihar Jail
2. Kanimozhi
- DMK Member of Parliament (MP) and daughter of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi
- Accused of receiving a ₹200 crore bribe through Kalaignar TV
- Arrested by the CBI in 2011
- Spent six months in Tihar Jail
3. Telecom Companies and Business Executives
- Major telecom operators like Unitech Wireless, Reliance Communications, Swan Telecom, and Loop Telecom were named in the case.
- Several top executives and corporate officials were investigated and arrested.
2017 Delhi Special Court Verdict
After a six-year-long trial, the Delhi Special Court delivered its verdict on December 21, 2017.
- A. Raja, Kanimozhi, and all other accused were acquitted.
- The court ruled that there was insufficient evidence to prove corruption charges.
- CBI’s arguments were dismissed, and telecom companies were also cleared of any wrongdoing.
This verdict was met with shock and criticism from various political and legal circles.
CBI’s Appeal and 2025 Court Hearings
In 2018, the CBI challenged the 2017 verdict in the Delhi High Court, arguing that the Special Court had wrongly acquitted the accused.
- In May 2024, the Delhi High Court accepted the appeal for review.
- From March 18, 2025, the case will be heard daily.
- The final verdict is expected by June 2025.
Why This Case is Important?
1. Impact on Indian Politics
- The 2G scam was a major issue in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.
- Narendra Modi’s BJP government used it as a key campaign point against the Congress-led UPA.
- The final verdict in 2025 could reshape political narratives ahead of future elections.
2. Legal and Judicial Impact
- The 2017 acquittal was controversial, with many legal experts questioning the judgment.
- The High Court’s decision will set an important precedent for corruption cases in India.
3. Impact on the Telecom Industry
- The spectrum allocation process in India was changed after the 2G scam, introducing a transparent auction system.
- The final verdict could influence future regulatory and licensing policies in the telecom sector.
Conclusion
The 2G spectrum scam appeal case will be heard daily from March 18, 2025, and a final judgment is expected by June 2025. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for politics, the legal system, and the telecom industry in India.
With high political stakes, the case is expected to attract significant public and media attention in the coming months.
