JD(U) raises doubts over govt's intention to act against Lalli

Dec 11, 2010 |

New Delhi

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The JD(U) on Saturday raised doubts over the government's intention to act against controversial Prasar Bharati CEO B.S. Lalli despite information and broadcasting minister Ambika Soni indicating that the official could face suspension in a day or two.

"Given the UPA government's ill-disguised preference for corrupt persons with access to high places, renewed efforts may yet be made to shield Lalli from being suspended, which is otherwise imperative when the Supreme Court enquiry gets underway," party chief Sharad Yadav told reporters here.

Mr Yadav said, "it was nearly six months after the receipt of the strongly adverse CVC report in the government of India that a reference was recently made by the PMO for Presidential assent to an inquiry by the Supreme Court.... So far the government has allowed him (Lalli) to go scotfree".

The Opposition leader's remarks came a day after Soni said "the option of his suspension is under consideration". She was asked about the future course of action against Lalli in the wake of Presidential nod for a Supreme Court inquiry into charges against him.

The President has given her assent for a Supreme Court inquiry into charges of financial mismanagement against Lalli, setting in motion the process for his removal from the post.

The assent had come on a reference made by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh as required under the Prasar Bharti Act. Lalli, who assumed office as CEO in December 2006, was indicted by the Central Vigilance Commission, which accused him of breach of Parliamentary privilege, giving undue favours to some broadcast companies and financial mismanagement.

Reacting to the Presidential reference, Lalli (63) has said "a lot of intrigue and mischief" was going on within the organisation against him that was "abetted and encouraged" by powerful elements from outside.

He, however, hoped that the inquiry by the Supreme Court would get finalised quickly so that the "true picture is known to the public at large".

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