ISLAMABAD: A high-level panel led by Indian PM Modi met to select the next director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), but the process drew sharp criticism from the opposition, according to The Hindu on Tuesday.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, who is part of the selection committee, reportedly described the meeting as a “mockery” of the process and submitted a formal dissent note.

The committee, which also includes the Chief Justice of India or a nominee, is meant to ensure transparency and bipartisan consultation in the appointment of the head of India’s premier investigative agency.

However, Gandhi objected to the way the meeting was conducted, saying the discussion lasted only a few minutes and did not allow for meaningful deliberation.

He also questioned the shortlist of candidates, arguing that the process appeared predetermined rather than consultative.

Gandhi complained that despite repeated written requests, he was not provided with the self-appraisal reports or 360-degree reports of the eligible candidates.

Accusations of 'institutional capture'

The criticism has reignited allegations of the opposition that the BJP-led government is tightening its control over key institutions.

Opposition parties have repeatedly accused the government of “institutional capture,” claiming that agencies like the CBI are being influenced to serve political interests.

They argue that central investigative bodies are increasingly used to target opposition leaders while cases involving ruling party figures are handled differently.

The BJP has consistently rejected such accusations, maintaining that agencies operate independently and that investigations are based on evidence.

The selection of the CBI director is particularly sensitive because the agency handles major corruption cases and politically high-profile investigations.

Process lacks transparency, says critics

Concerns over the appointment process have raised broader questions about the credibility and autonomy of institutions tasked with upholding the rule of law.

Critics say that if the selection process lacks transparency, it risks undermining public trust in the agency’s impartiality.

The meeting comes at a time when the role of central agencies in India has been under intense scrutiny from both political actors and civil society.

The current CBI director, Praveen Sood, who was already serving on an extension, was given another one-year extension amid the political row.

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Indian opposition leader calls CBI chief selection a ‘mockery’