Solapur: Maharashtra Chief Minister Sushilkumar Shinde today (November 16) denied any political interference into the investigation of multi-crore fake stamp paper scam and assured an 'impartial' probe.

Speaking at a meet-the-press programme organised by Solapur Shramik Patrakar Sangh here, Shinde said he was satisfied with the probe by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), that has 'not spared even top ranking police officers'.

"My Government has given them a free hand. If, as our opponents are alleging, any prominent political personality is found to have links with the main accused Abdul Karim Telgi, I am sure that SIT will not hesitate to book him".

To a query, he said, "There is no question of rift between me and Home Minister Chhagan Bhujbal and we have a very good understanding".

The Chief Minister thanked the High Court for "expressing full faith on his impartiality". As per the High Court order, the Government has to submit its report on the nine-point query, before 27th of this month.

He said the Government had lost huge revenue due to the scam, and added that soon he would ascertain the exact amount of the loss to the Government exchequer.

To another question, Shinde ruled out premature Assembly elections in Maharashtra and also predicted 'thumping victory' for Congress in Andhra Pradesh.

PTI