New Delhi, Jan 5 (IANS) Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader V.K. Malhotra Monday demanded a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation into the alleged scam in the Delhi Development Authority’s (DDA) 2008 housing scheme. DDA had invited applications for allotment of 5,238 flats, for which more than 566,000 people responded. The draw of lots took place Dec 16 last year after which several unsuccessful applicants alleged the draw was not fair.

Several media reports also suggested that it was a scam and that several applicants had used forged documents.

“A big scam has been committed in the allotment of flats by the DDA in connivance with property dealers. This scam should be referred for further probe to the CBI and stern action should be taken against the culprit(s) whether they are officials or politicians,” Malhotra, who is also Leader of Opposition of the Delhi legislative assembly, said in a statement.

“Delhi’s citizens have not forgotten the notorious Ashok Malhotra scam (scam committed in allotment of plots to residents of slum clusters) and the Cooperative Society scam, while the DDA has given another big scam as a New Year gift to Delhi. Due to this scam, genuine allottees have been deprived of the allotment,” he added.

“Without thorough checking, the DDA has given the draw before elections under the pressure of Delhi government. For this, the Delhi government is equally responsible,” Malhotra said.