Year: 2025

Every democracy needs an honest investigator to look into big crimes and corruption. In India, that job falls to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Over the years, the CBI has earned a reputation for cracking tough cases, from crooked officials to multi-crore scams. But whispers about political meddling have sparked worry: has the CBI become more of a political instrument than a true guardian of justice? 

What the CBI Does and How It Started
The CBI began in 1941 under a different name, the Special Police Establishment. By 1963, it was reborn as the CBI, charged with probing economic fraud, corruption, and crimes that cross state or national borders. Think of the CBI as India’s detective agency for the biggest, most complex cases—whether someone is pocketing public money, running illegal financial schemes, or plotting crimes that reach beyond one state’s borders. Its task is simple in idea but huge in practice: investigate fairly, follow the evidence, and help the courts deliver justice. 

Why the CBI’s Freedom Matters
When the CBI investigates a politician or powerful figure, the stakes are high. If the agency bows to pressure or bias, people lose faith in the legal system. They wonder if justice depends on who’s in power rather than what really happened. An independent CBI helps hold leaders accountable, sends a message that no one is above the law, and keeps the idea of democracy alive. Without that freedom, investigations can stall, evidence can vanish, and the rule of law weakens. 

Signs That Politics Is Creeping In
Over time, certain patterns suggest that the CBI isn’t always free to do its job: 

• Moving Key Officers Around: Officers digging into sensitive cases sometimes get transferred suddenly. When you see investigative teams broken up just as they close in on big names, it raises red flags.
• Leadership Battles: Clashes at the top, like the public feud between past CBI chiefs Alok Verma and Rakesh Asthana, hint at outside influence. Such fights stall important work and make the agency look divided.
• Selective Investigations: High-profile cases against opposition figures often move forward faster than equally serious matters involving the ruling party. When the CBI appears to pick and choose targets, people question its fairness.

Someshwar Srivastava’s Take on Political Pressure
Someshwar Srivastava, who’s spent decades writing about crime and justice, believes political meddling is the CBI’s biggest enemy. He points out three key concerns: 

1. Broken Original Promise: The CBI was meant to be a strong, neutral force for truth. Yet today, it sometimes acts aggressively against opponents of the government and seems inactive when the government’s own allies face trouble.
2. Trust at Risk: If the ruling party can direct investigations, why would anyone trust the CBI? Once people think a case is politically driven, they lose faith in the outcome—no matter the real facts.
3. Need for Real Autonomy: Only by creating safeguards—like fixed leadership terms and independent selection panels—can the CBI stand up to power. For Srivastava, protecting the agency from political whims is the key to keeping justice truly blind.

Big Cases That Sparked Debate
Several major investigations show why people worry about bias: 

• The 2G Spectrum Scandal: Billions of rupees in telecom licenses were linked to politicians and officials. When most accused walked free for lack of proof, many blamed the CBI for shaky evidence-gathering—some say because pressures led investigators to mishandle or hide facts.
• Coal Allocation Scam: The Supreme Court once called the CBI a “caged parrot,” arguing the agency lacked the guts to speak out under pressure. Documents allegedly went missing, and questions remain about whether the CBI was asked to protect certain names.
• Disproportionate Assets Cases: Over the years, chief ministers and ministers have faced charges of owning far more wealth than they should. Yet, as governments changed, some probes slowed or closed without clear reasons—fueling suspicions that cases move only when it suits those in power. 

How Courts and Experts Want to Fix Things
India’s top judges have repeatedly scolded the CBI for bowing to political winds. In their view, a strong judicial role and concrete rules are vital: 

1. Independent Appointment Panel: A group of judges and senior experts—not politicians—should choose who runs the CBI.
2. Fixed Tenures: Let CBI chiefs and key officers serve a set term, so they can’t be removed on a whim when investigations get uncomfortable.
3. More Court Oversight: Judges could watch over major probes, stepping in if they see unfair delays or tampering.
4. Constitutional Backing: Giving the CBI a status like the Election Commission would protect it from being reshaped or reined in by passing governments.

Rebuilding Trust: The Road Ahead
For India’s justice system to stay strong, people must believe in the CBI again. That means: 

• Strict Anti‐Interference Laws: Clear rules making political meddling a punishable offense.
• Open Reporting: Publishing progress reports and explaining delays can show the public that cases are handled fairly.
• Whistleblower Protections: Encouraging CBI insiders to speak up if they face undue pressure, without fear of losing their jobs.

When these steps click into place, the CBI can shift from a “caged” body to a free one, respected for seeking facts rather than serving interests. 

Conclusion 

Someshwar Srivastava’s message is clear: an investigative agency must chase truth, not political agendas. The CBI began as a torchbearer for justice. Today, it stands at a crossroads—either it regains its independence through reforms or remains a tool of convenience. For the sake of fair trials, democracy, and public confidence, the time to shore up the CBI’s autonomy is now. Only then can it truly protect India’s rule of law, one case at a time. 

Read More Related Blogs:

• Someshwar Srivastava’s Views on Political Interference in CBI
• Someshwar Srivastava Insights on Investment Strategies for 2025
• Someshwar Srivastava: Role of Retail Investors in India’s Stock Market
• Someshwar Srivastava: Why Rise in Gold Prices is Crucial?

Ever wondered how rich one could get if there was gold available for investment? For centuries, gold has held a captivating allure.  

It’s adorned royalty, symbolised wealth, and served as a cornerstone of global economies. 

In India, its significance transcends mere economics; it’s deeply woven into our cultural fabric, cherished during weddings, festivals, and passed down through generations. 

Recently, this timeless asset made headlines yet again, crossing the significant milestone of ₹1 Lakh per 10 grams in the Indian retail market (including GST) and on certain futures contracts, as reported around April 22, 2025.  

As per highly experienced investor and advisor Someshwar Srivastava, this record surge, fuelled by a cocktail of global economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, a weakening US dollar, and central bank buying, has reignited conversations about gold’s role in modern investment portfolios. 

But beyond the headlines and the shimmering appeal, why is investing in gold still considered a prudent practice?  

Let’s delve into the enduring value of this precious metal. 

Why Invest in Gold? 

Gold’s reputation as a sound investment isn’t built on fleeting trends. It stems from several core attributes: 

1. Historical Store of Value: Unlike fiat currencies, which can be devalued by inflation or government policies, gold possesses intrinsic value. Throughout history, it has consistently retained purchasing power over long periods, acting as a reliable store of wealth. 

2. Safe Haven Asset: In times of economic turmoil, market volatility, or geopolitical instability (like the recent US-China trade tensions or concerns around Federal Reserve policies cited in recent reports), investors often flock to gold. It’s perceived as a ‘safe harbour,’ preserving capital when other assets like stocks or bonds might be declining. Its performance during the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic underscores this characteristic. 

3. Hedge Against Inflation: When the cost of living rises and the value of currency erodes (inflation), gold prices often tend to increase. This makes it an effective tool to protect your wealth against the corrosive effects of inflation over the long term. 

4. Portfolio Diversification: Gold often exhibits a low or even negative correlation with traditional asset classes like equities and bonds. This means its price movements don’t necessarily mirror the stock market. Including gold in your portfolio can help reduce overall risk and provide stability, especially during market downturns. 

5. Cultural Significance: Particularly in India, owning gold is synonymous with prosperity and security. This deep-rooted cultural affinity ensures consistent domestic demand, especially during festive and wedding seasons. 

The Pros and Cons of Gold Investment 

Like any investment, gold comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages: 

Pros: 

• Liquidity: Gold is highly liquid. Whether in the form of bars, coins, or even jewellery (though less ideal for pure investment), it can be relatively easily converted into cash almost anywhere in the world. Digital forms like ETFs are even more liquid. 

• Tangibility (Physical Gold): Owning physical gold provides a sense of security for some investors – it’s an asset you can hold. 

• Universal Acceptance: Gold is recognized and valued globally, transcending borders and currencies. 

• Diversification Benefits: As mentioned, its low correlation with other assets makes it an excellent diversification tool. 

Cons: 

• No Passive Income: Unlike stocks (dividends) or bonds (interest), gold doesn’t generate regular income. Returns solely depend on price appreciation. 

• Storage and Security Costs (Physical Gold): Storing physical gold safely involves costs (bank lockers) and carries the risk of theft or damage. Purity can also be a concern. 

• Price Volatility: While a long-term store of value, gold prices can be volatile in the short term, influenced by factors like interest rates, currency movements, and market sentiment. Recent sharp rallies highlight this potential for fluctuation. 

• Opportunity Cost: During strong bull runs in the equity market, gold’s returns might lag behind stocks over certain periods. 

• Transaction Costs: Buying physical gold, especially jewellery, involves making charges. Even ETFs and Mutual Funds have management fees and brokerage costs. 

Future Predictions 

Following the recent price surge, experts remain broadly optimistic, albeit cautious, about gold’s future. Several factors support a continued bullish outlook into 2025 and potentially FY26: 

• Persistent Global Uncertainty: Ongoing geopolitical tensions and economic concerns continue to bolster gold’s safe-haven appeal. 

• Central Bank Buying: Central banks globally, including the RBI, have been increasing their gold reserves (‘de-dollarisation’), providing consistent demand. 

• Potential US Fed Rate Cuts: Expectations of interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve tend to make non-yielding assets like gold more attractive compared to interest-bearing investments like bonds. 

• Weakening US Dollar: A weaker dollar generally makes gold cheaper for buyers using other currencies, potentially boosting demand. 

Forecasts vary, but many analysts see potential for further gains.  

Some predict prices reaching ₹85,000 – ₹91,000 per 10 grams or even higher (with some revised forecasts touching ₹1,12,000) by the end of 2025 or FY26.  

Goldman Sachs has issued particularly bullish forecasts, predicting gold could reach $3,700/oz (a 41% gain from Jan 1, 2025 levels) or even $4,500/oz (a potential 71% gain) by the end of 2025 under certain scenarios. 

However, seasoned veterans like Someshwar Srivastava advise caution. The recent rally has been sharp, and volatility remains a key risk.  

Many suggest approaching new investments strategically, perhaps buying on price dips rather than chasing all-time highs. 

The Feasibility Factor 

Despite the cons and volatility, gold remains a highly feasible investment for Indians, thanks to the variety of ways to invest: 

1. Physical Gold (Jewellery, Coins, Bars): The traditional method. Best for cultural purposes or those who prefer tangible assets. Be mindful of making charges, purity (look for BIS hallmark), and storage. 

2. Gold ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds): Units representing physical gold, traded on stock exchanges like shares. Offer liquidity, transparency, lower costs than physical gold (no making charges), and eliminate storage hassles. Requires a Demat account. 

3. Gold Mutual Funds: These funds primarily invest in Gold ETFs. Offer convenience, professional management, and allow investment via Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). Suitable for those without a Demat account or preferring the MF route. 

4. Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs): Issued by the RBI on behalf of the Government. Denominated in grams of gold. Offer a fixed interest rate (currently 2.5% p.a.) on the investment amount, paid semi-annually, in addition to capital appreciation linked to gold prices. Capital gains on redemption are tax-exempt for individuals. Have an 8-year tenure with exit options from the 5th year. Considered very safe and tax-efficient. 

5. Digital Gold: Allows buying gold online through various platforms, starting from very small amounts (even ₹1). Gold is stored in insured vaults on your behalf. Offers convenience but currently lacks a dedicated regulatory framework like SEBI for ETFs or MFs. 

Conclusion 

Gold’s recent surge past ₹1 Lakh is a testament to its enduring appeal in uncertain times.  

While it might not offer the explosive growth potential of equities in the short term, its historical resilience, diversification benefits, and role as a hedge against inflation and crisis make it a valuable strategic asset. 

Investing in gold shouldn’t be an ‘all-or-nothing’ approach. It’s about balance.  

Financial advisors like Someshwar Srivastava often suggest allocating a portion (typically 5-15%) of your portfolio to gold, depending on your age, risk tolerance, and overall financial goals.  

Whether through SGBs for tax efficiency and interest, ETFs for liquidity, or physical gold for tradition, incorporating the yellow metal can add a layer of stability and protection to your long-term investment journey.  

As the Indian household has long known, and as even seasoned bankers like Someshwar Srivastava have acknowledged, holding gold can indeed be a smart move. 

Read More Related Blogs:

• Someshwar Srivastava: Emerging Opportunities in India and Dubai 2025
• Someshwar Srivastava’s Views on Political Interference in CBI
• Someshwar Srivastava Insights on Investment Strategies for 2025
• Someshwar Srivastava: Role of Retail Investors in India’s Stock Market

Over the past decade, retail investors have become a significant force in India’s capital markets.  

With greater financial literacy, improved access to trading platforms, and regulatory support, the participation of individual investors in equity markets has grown rapidly.  

As of 2024, retail investors make up a sizeable chunk of the daily trading volume on both the NSE and BSE. 

This blog explores the rise of retail investors in India, their contribution to the market ecosystem, challenges they face, and how experts like Someshwar Srivastava view this trend from an industry and market perspective. 

Who Are Retail Investors? 

Retail investors are individual, non-professional investors who buy and sell securities for their personal accounts.  

Unlike institutional investors—such as mutual funds, insurance companies, or pension funds—retail investors trade in smaller volumes and typically rely on personal research, market information, and broker recommendations. 

The Surge in Retail Participation 

The rise of retail investing in India has been driven by several factors: 

1. Digital Trading Platforms 

Platforms like Zerodha, Upstox, Groww, and Paytm Money have revolutionized access to the markets. With simple onboarding processes and user-friendly interfaces, these platforms have opened the doors to first-time investors from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. 

2. COVID-19 and Market Volatility 

The 2020 pandemic-led market crash and subsequent recovery created a unique entry point. Millions of new investors entered the market to capitalize on falling prices, leading to a surge in Demat account openings. 

3. Educational Content 

Financial literacy content across YouTube, social media, and blogs has simplified complex concepts for new investors. Investors today have access to more free tools, calculators, webinars, and market explainers than ever before. 

4. Lower Entry Barriers 

The removal of high brokerage fees, introduction of fractional investing, and mobile-first platforms have made investing affordable and accessible to all income groups. 

Impact of Retail Investors on the Market 

Retail investors now contribute up to 35–40% of daily trading volumes in Indian equities. Their participation affects market liquidity, volatility, and even stock price movements—especially in small-cap and mid-cap segments. 

According to NSE data from FY2023–24: 

• Over 12 crore individual investors were registered on CDSL and NSDL. 

• A significant portion of retail capital flowed into equity mutual funds via SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans), with monthly inflows touching ₹18,000 crore in early 2024. 

• Retail shareholding in the Nifty 500 companies reached a record high, with individual investors holding approximately 7.4% of total equity market cap by March 2024. 

Retail Investors: A Broader Perspective 

While numbers show a growing interest and influence of retail investors, market experts often stress the importance of responsible participation. 

Someshwar Srivastava, a seasoned investor and real estate PR consultant with a deep understanding of financial markets, explains: 

“The involvement of retail investors in capital markets is a positive sign of economic democratization. But it’s essential that this participation is backed by informed decision-making and a long-term approach.” 

Srivastava’s insights are grounded in over two decades of observing investment behavior across sectors. He emphasizes that retail investors, while influential, should be cautious about short-term speculation and the over-reliance on informal stock tips. 

Challenges Faced by Retail Investors 

Despite the enthusiasm and growth, retail investors face several challenges: 

1. Lack of Professional Research 

Most retail investors depend on public data, social media content, or media articles. This can result in poor stock selection or reactive decision-making. 

2. Market Volatility 

Retail participants are more likely to be swayed by short-term market movements, which can lead to panic selling or impulsive buying. 

3. Limited Risk Management 

New investors often enter the market without understanding risk profiling, portfolio diversification, or exit strategies. 

4. Influence of Finfluencers 

The rise of financial influencers (“finfluencers”) has its pros and cons. While many create useful content, others may promote high-risk trades, penny stocks, or unverified tips without SEBI registration. 

The Regulatory Landscape 

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has been proactive in ensuring retail investor protection.  

Key regulations include: 

• Mandatory KYC for Demat account holders 

• Restrictions on unsolicited investment advice 

• T+1 settlement cycle implementation for faster fund transfers 

• Monitoring and cracking down on pump-and-dump schemes 

• SEBI’s 2023 proposal to regulate finfluencers and financial content on social media 

Such reforms aim to build a safer and more transparent investment ecosystem for individuals. 

The Way Forward for Retail Investors 

Retail investors are now an integral part of India’s capital market structure.  

However, sustainability will depend on their ability to stay informed and rational. 

According to Someshwar Srivastava: 

“The market offers opportunities to all, but it rewards discipline and patience. Retail investors must prioritize learning, diversify their investments, and resist the urge to follow the crowd.” 

Tips for Retail Investors to Navigate the Market 

1. Start with SIPs: Mutual fund SIPs remain a steady way to build long-term wealth without timing the market. 

2. Focus on Financial Goals: Link investments to personal goals like retirement, education, or housing to avoid emotional investing. 

3. Diversify Your Portfolio: Spread investments across different asset classes—equity, debt, gold, and real estate. 

4. Follow Reputed Sources: Stick to SEBI-registered advisors or established financial platforms for guidance. 

5. Stay Updated: Keep track of economic indicators, budget announcements, and global events affecting the markets. 

Conclusion 

Retail investors are no longer just passive spectators in India’s financial markets—they are active participants shaping the future of capital flow and wealth creation.  

While their growing presence is a positive trend, it must be supported by sound education, responsible regulation, and practical tools for investing. 

Experts like Someshwar Srivastava believe that retail investing in India is entering a new chapter – one that holds immense potential, provided it’s approached with the right mindset and information. 

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is often hailed as India’s premier investigative agency.  

Tasked with tackling corruption, economic offenses, and high-profile criminal cases, the CBI is expected to function as an independent and impartial body.  

However, over the years, the agency has been plagued by allegations of political interference, raising concerns about its credibility and effectiveness.  

The question remains—has political influence turned the CBI into a tool of convenience rather than a beacon of justice? 

The Role of CBI in India’s Justice System 

What is the CBI? 

• The CBI was established in 1941 as the Special Police Establishment (SPE) and was later reconstituted as the CBI in 1963. 

• It investigates cases of corruption, financial fraud, economic offenses, and crimes with inter-state and international ramifications. 

• Often referred to as the ‘premier investigative agency of India,’ it is expected to maintain transparency and uphold the rule of law. 

Why is CBI’s Independence Crucial? 

• The CBI is responsible for handling politically sensitive cases, which makes impartiality essential. 

• Any form of bias can undermine the credibility of investigations and lead to unjust verdicts. 

• An independent CBI ensures a fair trial process, protects democratic values, and deters misuse of power. 

Political Interference: A Growing Concern 

Instances of Alleged Political Influence 

• Over the years, different governments have been accused of using the CBI to settle political scores. 

• The agency has often been dubbed a “caged parrot,” reflecting its lack of autonomy. 

• High-profile cases involving opposition leaders are sometimes seen as politically motivated. 

Transfer and Removal of CBI Officers 

• The sudden transfer or removal of CBI officers investigating politically sensitive cases raises eyebrows. 

• In 2018, the internal feud between then CBI Director Alok Verma and Special Director Rakesh Asthana was seen as a result of political pressures. 

• Such interference not only disrupts investigations but also weakens public trust in the system. 

Someshwar Srivastava’s Perspective on CBI’s Credibility 

Someshwar Srivastava, a seasoned criminal writer and expert on investigative agencies, asserts that political interference in the CBI is one of the biggest threats to India’s judicial process. According to him: 

• “The CBI’s original mandate was to be an independent force against corruption and high-profile crimes. However, its selective aggression and inactivity in politically charged cases highlight its compromised integrity.” 

• “If the agency continues to be dictated by the ruling establishment, its credibility as a neutral investigative body will be permanently damaged.” 

• “Strengthening the autonomy of investigative agencies is crucial to ensuring that justice is not dictated by political interests.” 

Notable Cases Reflecting Political Bias 

The 2G Spectrum Case 

• Initially considered one of the biggest corruption scandals, the case saw high-profile politicians and bureaucrats facing serious charges. 

• The CBI’s role in the investigation was questioned when most of the accused were acquitted due to lack of evidence. 

The Coal Scam Investigation 

• The Supreme Court termed the CBI a “caged parrot” during its investigation of the coal allocation scam. 

• Allegations surfaced that crucial documents were tampered with and that the agency was pressured to protect certain political figures. 

The Disproportionate Assets Cases 

• Various leaders, including former Chief Ministers, have faced disproportionate assets cases initiated by the CBI. 

• However, delays in investigations and sudden closures of cases when governments change have raised concerns of selective prosecution. 

The Supreme Court’s Intervention and Recommendations 

Judicial Criticism of Political Interference 

• The Supreme Court has repeatedly reprimanded the CBI for succumbing to political pressure. 

• In several judgments, the court has emphasized the need for an independent and accountable investigative process. 

Suggested Reforms for CBI’s Autonomy 

• Creation of an Independent Appointment Committee: To ensure directors and officers are selected without political influence. 

• Fixed Tenure for Directors: Prevents abrupt removals and interference. 

• Strengthening Judicial Oversight: Courts should have more direct oversight over CBI investigations to ensure impartiality. 

• Parliamentary Reforms: The CBI should be granted constitutional status to function autonomously, similar to institutions like the Election Commission. 

The Future of CBI: Restoring Public Trust 

The Need for Public Confidence 

• A weakened CBI leads to public distrust in the justice system. 

• Restoring its credibility is crucial for ensuring fair investigations and upholding democracy. 

Steps Forward 

• Implementing stringent laws to prevent political meddling. 

• Increasing transparency in case handling and reporting. 

• Encouraging whistleblowers within the system to expose undue pressures. 

Final Thoughts 

The CBI was envisioned as an independent institution to fight corruption and uphold justice.  

However, the increasing political interference has made its integrity questionable.  

As Someshwar Srivastava aptly puts it, “An investigative agency should serve justice, not political interests.” 

Until meaningful reforms are implemented, the CBI’s ability to function as an unbiased institution will remain under scrutiny.  

The time to act is now, for the sake of India’s justice system and democracy.