Patna, Sep 3 (IANS) Bihar opposition leader Rabri Devi Sunday demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into alleged financial and procedural irregularities in the purchase of an aircraft during the President's Rule in the state last year.

Rabri Devi's demand comes a day after the office of the principal accountant general (PAG) here detected irregularities in the purchase of a Kingair C-90B airplane.

"It is a serious matter and a CBI probe is the only way out to exposed those behind the irregularities," Rabri said.

The PAG in its report pointed that the plane was purchased for $2.7 million without inviting tenders, and the agent who provided the aircraft made a commission of Rs.3 million.

"For a little more money ($2.9 million), the state could have bought the newer Kingair C90-GT model," it said.

The PAG also said Governor Buta Singh had been kept in the dark and his approval was obtained without bringing to his notice the tender procedures.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said he was not aware of the purchase details since the deal took place before he came to power.

"The government will investigate the matter and if the charges are found to be true, appropriate action will be taken against the erring officials," he said.

However, Chief Secretary G.S. Kang denied any irregularity in the deal.