New Delhi, October 24: Stepping up his attack on the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government over the ongoing infight in the CBI and Rafale deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said PM Modi broke law when he sent CBI director Alok Verma on leave. Rahul Gandhi alleged Verma was 'removed' to stop him from investigating the Rafale deal.

"PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI & LOP," Gandhi tweeted. Taking a dig at PM Modi, the Congress leader further wrote: "Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It." CBI vs CBI Battle Explained: Why Alok Kumar Verma and Rakesh Asthana are at Loggerheads? How it All Started.

Earlier today, Gandhi said CBI director Alok Verma was sent on "forced leave" for collecting documents on the Rafale "scam". He added that by sending Verma on "forced leave", PM Modi has given out a clear message that anyone coming close to unravelling the truth behind the defence deal will be "wiped out".

"CBI Chief Alok Verma was collecting documents on the Rafale scam. He was forcibly sent on leave. The Prime Minister's message is very clear that whoever comes around Rafale -- will be removed, wiped out," Gandhi tweeted. Later, speaking in poll-bound Rajasthan, he said, "The country and the constitution are in danger."

In the wee hours of Wednesday, the Centre sent Verma on leave and transferred over a dozen officers including those probing bribery charges against CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana. It also asked Joint Director M Nageshwar Rao to look after the duties and functions of the CBI Director.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 24, 2018 06:51 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).