Mumbai: Sameer Bhujbal, nephew of former Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Chhagan Bhujbal, today (Feb 25, 2004) appeared before Special Investigating Team (SIT) for questioning in the multi-crore fake stamp paper scam.

In response to the summons issued by the SIT, Sameer arrived at its Worli office at 11:45 hours (IST) in his car along with his associates.

As a precautionary measure, the police had stopped Bhujbal's supporters at the nearby Worli Naka itself.

A strong posse of policemen was deployed outside SIT office and barricades were put up. Besides, approach roads to SIT office were also blocked.

Sameer has for all this year been a close aide of the former Deputy Chief Minister, looking after Chhagan Bhujbal's political interests and the growth of Maharashtra Education Trust in suburban Bandra of which he is an office-bearer.

Sameer, who is known for his penchant for cars and clothes, is a close friend of multi-millionaire Antim Totla of Jalgaon, who has already been questioned by the SIT alongwith brother-in-law Prakash Jakhete.

Totla was targetted by the Opposition for sponsoring the Bangalore trip of Congress-NCP legislators in 2001 when the Government was on the verge of a split. However, Totla had denied the charge although he admitted he was close to several politicians.