2G scam: Maxis rejects CBI charges; to ‘vigorously’ seek legal remedy

Malaysia-based Maxis Communications Berhad today denied all allegations of wrongdoing in the 2G spectrum scam after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed a charge-sheet in relation to perceived irregularities in its acquisition of Aircel Ltd from Siva Ventures Limited (SVL) in 2006.

The charge-sheet names Dayanidhi Maran, Kalanidhi Maran, Maxis, Sun Direct TV Pvt Ltd, and others, over offences punishable under Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) (criminal conspiracy) read with Sections 7, 12 and 13(1)(d) of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Maxis said in a media statement it has not yet been served with a copy of the charge-sheet.

The charge-sheet is premised on CBI's findings following its investigations into a complaint made by the promoter of SVL, C Sivasankaran, that Dayanidhi Maran had allegedly abused his position (as union minister of communications & IT, from May 2004 to May 2007) and constricted the business environment of Aircel between 2004 and 2005 with the aim of coercing SVL to sell Aircel to Maxis.

It further alleged that as consideration for the favour received by Maxis, Malaysian firm Astro All Asia Networks Limited (AAAN) paid illegal amounts to Sun Direct in the guise of purchase of its shares at a premium, and to South Asia FM Ltd.

AAAN said in a statement that it has not been "formally notified nor served with any chargesheet", and that it denies the allegations as "totally unfounded and baseless".

Maxis said in order to defend itself and its director Ralph Marshall - also named in the charge-sheet - it will vigorously pursue all available legal remedies. Maxis would also seek international investment treaty protections.