The CBI today registered a fresh case in connection with alleged irregularities in awarding Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited’s (BSNL) Wiimax franchise to a private firm and carried out searches in Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Gurgaon. CBI spokesperson Dharini Mishra said that nine teams of CBI officials searched the residences of BSNL officials and the officials of Starnet, the alleged beneficiary, which got the franchise.

The beneficiary private firm is considered to be close to former Telecom Minister A Raja. However, the agency has not named Raja in the present case.

It is alleged that Starnet Communication was given letter of intent for the WiiMax franchise of BSNL for its six circles despite the fact that it was not eligible for the same and fudged its balance sheet to grab the deal.

The anti-corruption watchdog, Central Vigilance Commission, has also found alleged irregularities in the allotment of franchise to Starnet.