CBI Launches Probe Into Alleged Record Tampering in 2008 BSF Smuggling Case

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has initiated a probe into allegations that official records were manipulated in connection with a 2008 smuggling case involving the Border Security Force (BSF).

The agency has registered a First Information Report (FIR) against unidentified BSF officers and others, following directions from the Delhi High Court, which had raised concerns about discrepancies in official documentation related to the case.

The investigation will examine whether official records were altered in a manner that led to disciplinary action and the eventual dismissal of two BSF constables.

Allegations of Fabricated Evidence

The case originates from petitions filed by two former BSF constables, B. Venkataswamy and Tarsem Singh, who claim they were wrongly implicated in the smuggling case.

According to their petition, the incident occurred on December 26, 2008, when the two constables were posted on duty at the Dayarampur border post in West Bengal along the India–Bangladesh border.

During their patrol, the constables reportedly seized 75 bottles of Phensedyl cough syrup from a suspect who fled the scene.

Phensedyl contains codeine, making it a commonly trafficked substance across the India–Bangladesh border due to demand in illegal markets.

The constables claim they reported the seizure to their superior officers following standard procedures.

However, they later alleged that official records were altered by senior officers, creating the impression that the constables themselves had concealed and attempted to smuggle the contraband.

Court-Martial and Dismissal

Following internal reports within the force, the two constables were tried before a Summary Security Force Court under the BSF Act.

On May 5, 2009, the court found them guilty and ordered their dismissal from service.

Their appeal before the BSF’s Appellate Authority was also rejected, leaving them without relief within the internal disciplinary system.

The dismissed personnel subsequently approached the courts, arguing that the disciplinary proceedings relied on manipulated or inaccurate records.

Delhi High Court Flags Discrepancies

In its order dated September 8, 2025, the Delhi High Court observed that the case contained sufficient irregularities to justify a detailed investigation.

The court specifically noted discrepancies in official documentation, including the presence of two separate Roznamchas (daily diary entries) produced in different proceedings for the same incident and date.

Roznamchas serve as official daily records in security and police units, documenting operational activities and incidents.

The existence of multiple diary entries for the same event raised serious concerns about the integrity of the official records, prompting the court to call for further investigation.

CBI Investigation Begins

Acting on the High Court’s directive, the CBI has now formally registered an FIR and begun its investigation.

The probe will focus on:

• verifying the authenticity of official records, including the Roznamchas

• examining whether documents were altered or fabricated

• identifying individuals responsible for any alleged manipulation

• reviewing administrative decisions that resulted in the constables’ dismissal

Investigators are also expected to examine the sequence of events surrounding the disciplinary proceedings and determine whether procedural lapses or misconduct occurred during the original inquiry.

Case Reopened After More Than a Decade

The investigation comes more than 15 years after the original incident, reflecting the judiciary’s concern over possible irregularities in the handling of the case.

If evidence of record manipulation is established, authorities may pursue further legal action against those responsible.

Experts note that maintaining transparent documentation and strong oversight systems - including structured auditing services in India is crucial for preventing procedural irregularities in sensitive institutional investigations.

Investigation Continues

The CBI is now expected to examine records, administrative files and witness statements related to the case.

The agency’s findings will determine whether official records were deliberately altered and whether disciplinary actions taken against the two constables were based on fabricated evidence.