The process of appointing the new director of the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) has already begun.

The selection panel comprising of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge will be meeting at the Prime Minister’s residence to select the new CBI Director on January 24.

According to sources, 17 officers of 4 batches, 1982 to 1985 are eligible for the post of CBI Director out of which 6 officers have been shortlisted by the Directorate of Personnel and Training (DoPT).

However, 4 among 6 officers will be sent to the selection committee for the appointment of the next CBI Director.

Earlier today, controversial Central Bureau of Investigation officer Rakesh Asthana has been moved out of the agency in a sudden move.

Asthana has been transferred to the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, which largely looks after airport and flight security.

Ahead in the race is YC Modi, who is currently holding the position of National Investigation Agency (NIA) chief. A 1984 batch officer of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, YC Modi has over 33 years of experience out of which he has served in the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) for over 10 years. In his two instincts, 2002-2010 and 2015-2017, Modi handled 'Special Crime and Economic Offences' besides 'Anti-Corruption' cases. YC Modi's decade long service in CBI and knowledge about the functioning of the agency is the biggest advantage for him.

Also read: Rakesh Asthana moved out of CBI, sent to aviation security agency

ALSO WATCH| In Depth: What next for CBI after the bitter feud within?