CBI takes over investigations from Lucknow Police in TRP manipulation

NEW DELHI: The latest development in the alleged TRP manipulation row is that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the inquiry into the alleged TRP manipulation case from the Lucknow police, according to officials quoted in a PTI report.

A case had been registered in the Hazratganj police station of Lucknow after a complaint was filed by a person named Kamal Sharma, three days ago.

The alleged TRP manipulation scam was first unearthed by the Mumbai police commissioner ParamBirSinghon 8 October. Since then, charges have been flying thick and fast between one of the accused Republic Media and the law keepers. Singh during his press conference had stated three channels including Republic were involved in the rigging. However, the Arnab Goswami led news broadcaster was vehement in its denial of its involvement, saying that the commissioner was indulging in a vendetta campaign. Goswami had also said he would fight the Mumbai police in the courts.

It even moved the court seeking to quash the FIR lodged by the Mumbai police against it.During the ongoing arguments in court yesterday, advocate Kapil Sibal representing the Maharashtra government and the Mumbai police Police, stated that the FIR has no mention of Republic, hence there is no need to quash it. On the other hand, advocate Harish Salve representing Republic Media, assured that the petitioner will cooperate with the authorities whenever called to do so.

So far, it seems as if Arnab and Republic are scoring points against the police in this specific case. Will the latter play a hidden card? We can only wait and watch.