Congress leads RS walkout
NEW DELHI, Nov 30, 1998. — The first day of the winter session of the Lok Sabha began on a heated note today with agitated members of the Rashtriya Janata Dal-Samajwadi combine, the Rashtriya Loktantrik Morcha, demanding govern-ment’s resignation over its failure to contain prices of essential commodities and forcing adjournment of the House for the day without transaction of business. The Opposition staged a walkout in the Rajya Sabha.
Members of the RLM were on their feet soon after the House went through the ritual obituary references and raised slogans, demanding Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee’s resignation.
Even as the Speaker, Mr G M C Balayogi, called the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Sharad Pawar, to speak, the members of the RJD-SP combine rushed into the well of the House and started raising slogans against the government.
Mr Pawar was heard saying he had given a notice seeking suspension of question hour and had pressed for a discussion on the abnormal rise in prices.
A sombre BJP, led by the Prime Minister, the Home Minister, Mr L K Advani, and other Cabinet members remained mute spectators as members of the RLM raised slogans like "Vajpayee istipha do" (Vajpayee resign). They said the BJP-led coalition had no moral justification for remaining in office after the people had voted against it in the just concluded poll.
After 25 minutes of noisy scenes and Speaker’s appeal to the members to maintain order, Mr Balayogi adjourned the House till 1400 hours.
When the House reassembled, the RLM members again trooped into the well of the House amidst sloganeering. They refused to heed to the Speaker’s appeal for restoration of decorum in the House. Congress members, however, remained silent.
Some members of the BJP tried to counter the RLM onslaught by trading counter-charges but senior leaders like Mr L K Advani and Mr Murli Manohar Joshi restrained them.
The Speaker tried to persuade the agitated members to return to their seats, saying that the House was ready to discuss price rise and other important issues as demanded by several members.
At one stage he chided the Opposition, saying that it was not the proper way to raise any matter. When the House was willing to discuss the issue threadbare, he said he did not understand the reason behind such an act.
The president of the RLM, Mr Mulayam Singh Yadav, said there was no question of retreat on the price issue and the government should quit. He said apart from the price rise issue, there were many issues which needed to be raised in the House.
The Speaker finally adjourned the House for the day.
Outgoing Delhi Chief Minister Sushma Swaraj, who resigned as Information and Broadcasting Minister but retained her Lok Sabha seat, was conspicuous by her absence.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Vajpayee says ‘no’
NEW DELHI, Nov 30, 1998. — Assured of the support of the allies to the BJP-led coalition government, the Prime Minister, Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee, today rejected the Opposition’s demand for the resignation of his government in the wake of the BJP’s defeat in the recently held assembly elections in Delhi, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister M.L. Khurana told mediapersons that partners in the BJP-led alliance had reiterated support at a meeting of the allies which was convened by the Prime Minister. The meeting was also attended by representatives of the AIADMK. The Minister of Law and Justice, Mr Thambi Durai, had met Mr Vajpayee twice since yesterday, he said.
Mr Khurana said the Prime Minister while rejecting the Opposition’s demand for the resignation of his government pointed out that there was no such precedent when a ruling party at the Centre had resigned because of poor performance in assembly elections.
In 1993 when the Congress was in power at the Centre, the party had lost assembly elections in several states, including Delhi and Rajasthan, but the minority government had continued, Mr Vajpayee argued.
Accepting the election results, the Prime Minister said the party should introspect to determine reasons for its defeat. "We should not feel disappointed but try to take corrective measures", he said adding that the party had won all six Lok Sabha byelections in the past eight months. This indicated that the people had not rejected the Central Government policies and programmes, he asserted.
The Prime Minister gave a detailed account of the initiatives taken by the government to control prices. A long-term plan was to set a chain of cold storages for preservation of perishable commodities. Both private and public sectors would be involved in this effort.
Mr Vajpayee said farmers should get remunerative prices even in case of a good crop. At the same time, it should be ensured that commodities were made available to consumers at reasonable prices even if crops failed due to natural calamities.
The Prime Minister said the Centre would come down heavily on hoarders. The Centre, he said, would bring a Bill to strengthen the Essential Commodities Act during this session. Meanwhile, the states could initiate action against hoarders under various existing laws.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister M.L. Khurana told mediapersons that partners in the BJP-led alliance had reiterated support at a meeting of the allies which was convened by the Prime Minister. The meeting was also attended by representatives of the AIADMK. The Minister of Law and Justice, Mr Thambi Durai, had met Mr Vajpayee twice since yesterday, he said.
Mr Khurana said the Prime Minister while rejecting the Opposition’s demand for the resignation of his government pointed out that there was no such precedent when a ruling party at the Centre had resigned because of poor performance in assembly elections.
In 1993 when the Congress was in power at the Centre, the party had lost assembly elections in several states, including Delhi and Rajasthan, but the minority government had continued, Mr Vajpayee argued.
Accepting the election results, the Prime Minister said the party should introspect to determine reasons for its defeat. "We should not feel disappointed but try to take corrective measures", he said adding that the party had won all six Lok Sabha byelections in the past eight months. This indicated that the people had not rejected the Central Government policies and programmes, he asserted.
The Prime Minister gave a detailed account of the initiatives taken by the government to control prices. A long-term plan was to set a chain of cold storages for preservation of perishable commodities. Both private and public sectors would be involved in this effort.
Mr Vajpayee said farmers should get remunerative prices even in case of a good crop. At the same time, it should be ensured that commodities were made available to consumers at reasonable prices even if crops failed due to natural calamities.
The Prime Minister said the Centre would come down heavily on hoarders. The Centre, he said, would bring a Bill to strengthen the Essential Commodities Act during this session. Meanwhile, the states could initiate action against hoarders under various existing laws.
RLM asks PM to quit; LS adjourned
Congress leads RS walkout
NEW DELHI, Nov 30, 1998. — The first day of the winter session of the Lok Sabha began on a heated note today with agitated members of the Rashtriya Janata Dal-Samajwadi combine, the Rashtriya Loktantrik Morcha, demanding govern-ment’s resignation over its failure to contain prices of essential commodities and forcing adjournment of the House for the day without transaction of business. The Opposition staged a walkout in the Rajya Sabha.
Members of the RLM were on their feet soon after the House went through the ritual obituary references and raised slogans, demanding Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee’s resignation.
Even as the Speaker, Mr G M C Balayogi, called the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Sharad Pawar, to speak, the members of the RJD-SP combine rushed into the well of the House and started raising slogans against the government.
Mr Pawar was heard saying he had given a notice seeking suspension of question hour and had pressed for a discussion on the abnormal rise in prices.
A sombre BJP, led by the Prime Minister, the Home Minister, Mr L K Advani, and other Cabinet members remained mute spectators as members of the RLM raised slogans like "Vajpayee istipha do" (Vajpayee resign). They said the BJP-led coalition had no moral justification for remaining in office after the people had voted against it in the just concluded poll.
After 25 minutes of noisy scenes and Speaker’s appeal to the members to maintain order, Mr Balayogi adjourned the House till 1400 hours.
When the House reassembled, the RLM members again trooped into the well of the House amidst sloganeering. They refused to heed to the Speaker’s appeal for restoration of decorum in the House. Congress members, however, remained silent.
Some members of the BJP tried to counter the RLM onslaught by trading counter-charges but senior leaders like Mr L K Advani and Mr Murli Manohar Joshi restrained them.
The Speaker tried to persuade the agitated members to return to their seats, saying that the House was ready to discuss price rise and other important issues as demanded by several members.
At one stage he chided the Opposition, saying that it was not the proper way to raise any matter. When the House was willing to discuss the issue threadbare, he said he did not understand the reason behind such an act.
The president of the RLM, Mr Mulayam Singh Yadav, said there was no question of retreat on the price issue and the government should quit. He said apart from the price rise issue, there were many issues which needed to be raised in the House.
The Speaker finally adjourned the House for the day.
Outgoing Delhi Chief Minister Sushma Swaraj, who resigned as Information and Broadcasting Minister but retained her Lok Sabha seat, was conspicuous by her absence.
NEW DELHI, Nov 30, 1998. — The first day of the winter session of the Lok Sabha began on a heated note today with agitated members of the Rashtriya Janata Dal-Samajwadi combine, the Rashtriya Loktantrik Morcha, demanding govern-ment’s resignation over its failure to contain prices of essential commodities and forcing adjournment of the House for the day without transaction of business. The Opposition staged a walkout in the Rajya Sabha.
Members of the RLM were on their feet soon after the House went through the ritual obituary references and raised slogans, demanding Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee’s resignation.
Even as the Speaker, Mr G M C Balayogi, called the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Sharad Pawar, to speak, the members of the RJD-SP combine rushed into the well of the House and started raising slogans against the government.
Mr Pawar was heard saying he had given a notice seeking suspension of question hour and had pressed for a discussion on the abnormal rise in prices.
A sombre BJP, led by the Prime Minister, the Home Minister, Mr L K Advani, and other Cabinet members remained mute spectators as members of the RLM raised slogans like "Vajpayee istipha do" (Vajpayee resign). They said the BJP-led coalition had no moral justification for remaining in office after the people had voted against it in the just concluded poll.
After 25 minutes of noisy scenes and Speaker’s appeal to the members to maintain order, Mr Balayogi adjourned the House till 1400 hours.
When the House reassembled, the RLM members again trooped into the well of the House amidst sloganeering. They refused to heed to the Speaker’s appeal for restoration of decorum in the House. Congress members, however, remained silent.
Some members of the BJP tried to counter the RLM onslaught by trading counter-charges but senior leaders like Mr L K Advani and Mr Murli Manohar Joshi restrained them.
The Speaker tried to persuade the agitated members to return to their seats, saying that the House was ready to discuss price rise and other important issues as demanded by several members.
At one stage he chided the Opposition, saying that it was not the proper way to raise any matter. When the House was willing to discuss the issue threadbare, he said he did not understand the reason behind such an act.
The president of the RLM, Mr Mulayam Singh Yadav, said there was no question of retreat on the price issue and the government should quit. He said apart from the price rise issue, there were many issues which needed to be raised in the House.
The Speaker finally adjourned the House for the day.
Outgoing Delhi Chief Minister Sushma Swaraj, who resigned as Information and Broadcasting Minister but retained her Lok Sabha seat, was conspicuous by her absence.
Friday, February 12, 2010
PM has not sought resignation of George
New Delhi, December 12, 2001.
Even as the Opposition resolved to stall the proceedings of Parliament till Union Defence Minister George Fernandes is “dismissed”, Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee appears confident that the storm created by the CAG report will “blow over soon.”
“The Prime Minister has not sought the resignation of Mr Fernandes,” authoritative sources said. They contend that the Opposition is expectedly trying to seek political mileage out of the report of the Comptroller and Auditor-General (CAG) with an eye on the Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Uttaranchal.
However, those responsible for any acts of omission or commission in the Kargil martyrs coffins deal will be brought to book, the sources asserted. They were cautiously optimistic that Parliament would resume its normal business from next week which is belied by the belligerent mood in the Opposition camp.
For all outward appearances, the Vajpayee government is trying to put up a brave front that Mr Fernandes cannot be held accountable for the findings of the CAG report. There is no doubt that the Prime Minister has come under sustained attack for reinducting Mr Fernandes in the government especially when the Venkataswamy commission of inquiry into the Tehelka expose is yet to complete its work and submit report.
It was the BJP-led NDA government which had sought a critical examination of the purchases made for the armed forces during Pakistan’s misadventure in the Kargil region of Jammu and Kashmir in 1999. The CAG report has unleashed a fresh controversy by providing the necessary lever to the Opposition to launch a frontal attack against the Vajpayee government.
There is discernible consternation in certain sections of the NDA that the emotive issue of Kargil martyrs can have an adverse impact for the ruling coalition in the Assembly elections barely 10 weeks away.
This assumes importance as the Vajpayee government is sought to be characterised as “Kafan chor (coffin thief).” They feel Mr Fernandes should bide his time outside the government till the CAG coffins issue is settled and the report of the Venkataswamy commission submitted to the government.
The combined Opposition, on the other hand maintains that it is acutely aware of the conduct rules of Parliament and acknowledges the supremacy of Lok Sabha Speaker G M C Balayogi.
The Congress, Left and other Opposition parties and groups have made their position clear to the Presiding Officer that “if action is initiated against them in the form of suspension for blocking the proceedings of the House, so be it. The CAG report corroborates the Tehelka expose of alleged kickback in defence deals,” the Opposition leaders said.
A Congress leader asked. “Why is Mr Fernandes not resigning”? “Propriety demands that the Union Defence minister quits the government. Our fight is against corruption in high places and we want nothing short of the dismissal of Mr Fernandes as the CAG has clearly indicted him,” he added.
Even as the Opposition resolved to stall the proceedings of Parliament till Union Defence Minister George Fernandes is “dismissed”, Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee appears confident that the storm created by the CAG report will “blow over soon.”
“The Prime Minister has not sought the resignation of Mr Fernandes,” authoritative sources said. They contend that the Opposition is expectedly trying to seek political mileage out of the report of the Comptroller and Auditor-General (CAG) with an eye on the Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Uttaranchal.
However, those responsible for any acts of omission or commission in the Kargil martyrs coffins deal will be brought to book, the sources asserted. They were cautiously optimistic that Parliament would resume its normal business from next week which is belied by the belligerent mood in the Opposition camp.
For all outward appearances, the Vajpayee government is trying to put up a brave front that Mr Fernandes cannot be held accountable for the findings of the CAG report. There is no doubt that the Prime Minister has come under sustained attack for reinducting Mr Fernandes in the government especially when the Venkataswamy commission of inquiry into the Tehelka expose is yet to complete its work and submit report.
It was the BJP-led NDA government which had sought a critical examination of the purchases made for the armed forces during Pakistan’s misadventure in the Kargil region of Jammu and Kashmir in 1999. The CAG report has unleashed a fresh controversy by providing the necessary lever to the Opposition to launch a frontal attack against the Vajpayee government.
There is discernible consternation in certain sections of the NDA that the emotive issue of Kargil martyrs can have an adverse impact for the ruling coalition in the Assembly elections barely 10 weeks away.
This assumes importance as the Vajpayee government is sought to be characterised as “Kafan chor (coffin thief).” They feel Mr Fernandes should bide his time outside the government till the CAG coffins issue is settled and the report of the Venkataswamy commission submitted to the government.
The combined Opposition, on the other hand maintains that it is acutely aware of the conduct rules of Parliament and acknowledges the supremacy of Lok Sabha Speaker G M C Balayogi.
The Congress, Left and other Opposition parties and groups have made their position clear to the Presiding Officer that “if action is initiated against them in the form of suspension for blocking the proceedings of the House, so be it. The CAG report corroborates the Tehelka expose of alleged kickback in defence deals,” the Opposition leaders said.
A Congress leader asked. “Why is Mr Fernandes not resigning”? “Propriety demands that the Union Defence minister quits the government. Our fight is against corruption in high places and we want nothing short of the dismissal of Mr Fernandes as the CAG has clearly indicted him,” he added.
Govt challenges Oppn to debate
New Delhi, December 12, 2001.
Terming the adjournment forced by the Opposition in both Houses of Parliament for the second consecutive day today as “unjustified”, the Vajpayee government today challenged the Opposition to have a “threadbare” debate on the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) report on the coffins purchase issue.
“I am making a direct charge against the Opposition. They would not stand any where if it was discussed in Parliament threadbare,” Law Minister Arun Jaitley, who was shouted down by Opposition members in the Lok Sabha today, told newspersons.
Criticising the Opposition for not allowing the proceedings in both Houses of Parliament for the past two days, Mr Jaitley accused the opposition of jumping into conclusion “merely on the basis of a preliminary report submitted by the CAG, which has not been dealt with by Parliamentary Accounts Committee (PAC).”
“There was a constitutional mechanism for the follow up of the CAG report which has to be dealt with by the PAC. Once the PAC takes it up and gives its comment it could be debated in Parliament, he added.
Stating that the PAC was headed by none other than a member from the Congress, Mr Jaitley said “the Opposition should have waited for the committee’s observations. Still if it wanted a debate in Parliament, the government was ready for it.”
Strongly defending Mr George Fernandes and pooh-poohing the Opposition demand for his resignation, the Law Minister said it was Mr Fernandes who had voluntarily referred all defence purchases made during the Kargil conflict to the PAC.
In fact the process of going in for purchase of aluminium caskets had begun in 1995 when Mr Mulayam Singh Yadav was the Defence Minister.”
“The report also had not made any remark against Mr Fernandes,” he said to buttress his arguments against Opposition’s demand for the Defence Minister’s scalp.
Terming the adjournment forced by the Opposition in both Houses of Parliament for the second consecutive day today as “unjustified”, the Vajpayee government today challenged the Opposition to have a “threadbare” debate on the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) report on the coffins purchase issue.
“I am making a direct charge against the Opposition. They would not stand any where if it was discussed in Parliament threadbare,” Law Minister Arun Jaitley, who was shouted down by Opposition members in the Lok Sabha today, told newspersons.
Criticising the Opposition for not allowing the proceedings in both Houses of Parliament for the past two days, Mr Jaitley accused the opposition of jumping into conclusion “merely on the basis of a preliminary report submitted by the CAG, which has not been dealt with by Parliamentary Accounts Committee (PAC).”
“There was a constitutional mechanism for the follow up of the CAG report which has to be dealt with by the PAC. Once the PAC takes it up and gives its comment it could be debated in Parliament, he added.
Stating that the PAC was headed by none other than a member from the Congress, Mr Jaitley said “the Opposition should have waited for the committee’s observations. Still if it wanted a debate in Parliament, the government was ready for it.”
Strongly defending Mr George Fernandes and pooh-poohing the Opposition demand for his resignation, the Law Minister said it was Mr Fernandes who had voluntarily referred all defence purchases made during the Kargil conflict to the PAC.
In fact the process of going in for purchase of aluminium caskets had begun in 1995 when Mr Mulayam Singh Yadav was the Defence Minister.”
“The report also had not made any remark against Mr Fernandes,” he said to buttress his arguments against Opposition’s demand for the Defence Minister’s scalp.
Congress not to relent
New Delhi, December 12, 2001.
The Congress today indicated that it would not budge from the demand for resignation of Defence Minister George Fernandes and would work in close coordination with other Opposition parties on the issue.
Congress chief spokesman Jaipal Reddy said the issue of caskets purchased for the Kargil martyrs was only the tip of the iceberg and the CAG report had pointed to several other anomalies in contracts which had been approved by the Defence Minister.
Asked why the Congress was not responding to the government offer for debate on the CAG issue, Mr Reddy said the party wanted deterrent political action. “The minimum we are seeking is resignation of Mr Fernandes,” the spokesman said.
Asserting that the CAG report was a ringing indictment of the Vajpayee government, the Congress spokesman also took exception to the manner in which Law Minister Arun Jaitley was “trying to rubbish the report of the CAG either by implication or through insinuation.”
“The CAG report was well-considered and had taken into consideration all replies of the Defence Ministry,’’ the spokesman said.
He said 129 contracts worth Rs 2,175.40 crore were signed for Operation Vijay of which contracts worth Rs 1,606 crore were concluded after the Kargil war was over.
Admitting that defence procurement procedures were simplified in placing orders while a war was being fought, Mr Reddy wondered why the procurement procedures continued to be relaxed after the war was over. “Contracts worth 75 per cent of the total value were made after the war was over,” Mr Reddy said, adding that there was no justification for simplification of procedures after the war was over.
Mr Reddy said irregularities were not with regard to a contract. “The ammunition for T-72 tanks was also delivered after the war and the order was approved by the Defence Minister,” he said.
Quoting from the CAG report, Mr Reddy said the Defence Minister approved in June 99 import of 26,000 rounds of ammunition for T-72 tanks. “This ammunition worth Rs 116.83 crore was patently unnecessary as even a layman knows that T-72 tanks would not be deployed in Kargil,” Mr Reddy said.
He pointed out that the Chief Controller of R&D had pointed out that the DRDO could supply the T-72 ammunition but it was ultimately imported from Israel ignoring an offer from Russia from flimsy grounds. Drawing a comparison with the Tehelka expose, Mr Reddy said the Barak missile figuring in the expose was also purchased from Israel.
The Congress today indicated that it would not budge from the demand for resignation of Defence Minister George Fernandes and would work in close coordination with other Opposition parties on the issue.
Congress chief spokesman Jaipal Reddy said the issue of caskets purchased for the Kargil martyrs was only the tip of the iceberg and the CAG report had pointed to several other anomalies in contracts which had been approved by the Defence Minister.
Asked why the Congress was not responding to the government offer for debate on the CAG issue, Mr Reddy said the party wanted deterrent political action. “The minimum we are seeking is resignation of Mr Fernandes,” the spokesman said.
Asserting that the CAG report was a ringing indictment of the Vajpayee government, the Congress spokesman also took exception to the manner in which Law Minister Arun Jaitley was “trying to rubbish the report of the CAG either by implication or through insinuation.”
“The CAG report was well-considered and had taken into consideration all replies of the Defence Ministry,’’ the spokesman said.
He said 129 contracts worth Rs 2,175.40 crore were signed for Operation Vijay of which contracts worth Rs 1,606 crore were concluded after the Kargil war was over.
Admitting that defence procurement procedures were simplified in placing orders while a war was being fought, Mr Reddy wondered why the procurement procedures continued to be relaxed after the war was over. “Contracts worth 75 per cent of the total value were made after the war was over,” Mr Reddy said, adding that there was no justification for simplification of procedures after the war was over.
Mr Reddy said irregularities were not with regard to a contract. “The ammunition for T-72 tanks was also delivered after the war and the order was approved by the Defence Minister,” he said.
Quoting from the CAG report, Mr Reddy said the Defence Minister approved in June 99 import of 26,000 rounds of ammunition for T-72 tanks. “This ammunition worth Rs 116.83 crore was patently unnecessary as even a layman knows that T-72 tanks would not be deployed in Kargil,” Mr Reddy said.
He pointed out that the Chief Controller of R&D had pointed out that the DRDO could supply the T-72 ammunition but it was ultimately imported from Israel ignoring an offer from Russia from flimsy grounds. Drawing a comparison with the Tehelka expose, Mr Reddy said the Barak missile figuring in the expose was also purchased from Israel.
Adamant Oppn stalls proceedings again
New Delhi, December 12, 2001.
A determined and united Opposition today continued to stall the proceedings of Parliament for the second consecutive day, forcing adjournments in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, demanding the resignation of Defence Minister George Fernandes over the coffin scam.
The Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha both adjourned for the day without transacting any business as vociferous Opposition members stalled proceedings raising slogans “coffin chor, gaddi chhoro” (coffin swindler should quit).
While the Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day when it reassembled at 12 noon after the first adjournment, the Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day minutes after it met again after lunch at 2.30 pm. when Deputy Speaker P.M. Sayeed sensed that the members were not in a mood to budge even after ensuring two adjournments in the pre-lunch session.
Trouble began soon after both Houses met for the day as members raised the issue of CAG findings about irregularities in defence procurement, including coffins for Kargil martyrs.
Displaying the CAG report, they demanded immediate resignation of the Defence Minister, who has been under Opposition attack since his re-induction into the Union Cabinet in October.
Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who returned from a five-day tour of Japan last night, was present in the Lok Sabha when the House met.
Due to uproar in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister L.K. Advani again failed to introduce the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Bill to replace the POTO for the second day today.
The Opposition had stonewalled the bill’s introduction yesterday.
Soon after the Rajya Sabha assembled for question hour in the morning, the House was thrown into turmoil as Opposition members were on their feet shouting “coffin chor, gaddi chhoro”. Within minutes, Chairman Krishan Kant adjourned the House till 12 noon.
When it met again, the Opposition persisted with its demand for the resignation of Defence Minister George Fernandes and the Chairman adjourned the House for the day after listed papers were tabled amidst the din.
Congress and Left party members were seen waving copies of the CAG report which indicted the government for financial impropriety on defence purchases for Kargil operations, including procurement of coffins for the dead war heroes.
Some members displayed newspapers carrying the CAG report today.
In the Lok Sabha, agitated Opposition members raised slogans as soon as the House assembled in the morning, pressing for the ouster of Mr Fernandes.
Unlike yesterday when Opposition members stormed the well defying the recently adopted Code of Conduct and threw papers, today leaders of various parties directed their members against moving in to the well.
With no signs of restoration of order, Speaker G M C Balayogi adjourned the House till mid-day.
It was a repeat of the morning uproar when the House re-assembled with Opposition members shouting “gaddi chhoro” (leave the chair) and “Sena khoon bahati hai, sarkar dalali khati hai” (Soldiers shed blood, government takes commission).
As the din continued, Deputy Speaker Sayeed adjourned the House till 2.30 pm.
A determined and united Opposition today continued to stall the proceedings of Parliament for the second consecutive day, forcing adjournments in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, demanding the resignation of Defence Minister George Fernandes over the coffin scam.
The Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha both adjourned for the day without transacting any business as vociferous Opposition members stalled proceedings raising slogans “coffin chor, gaddi chhoro” (coffin swindler should quit).
While the Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day when it reassembled at 12 noon after the first adjournment, the Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day minutes after it met again after lunch at 2.30 pm. when Deputy Speaker P.M. Sayeed sensed that the members were not in a mood to budge even after ensuring two adjournments in the pre-lunch session.
Trouble began soon after both Houses met for the day as members raised the issue of CAG findings about irregularities in defence procurement, including coffins for Kargil martyrs.
Displaying the CAG report, they demanded immediate resignation of the Defence Minister, who has been under Opposition attack since his re-induction into the Union Cabinet in October.
Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who returned from a five-day tour of Japan last night, was present in the Lok Sabha when the House met.
Due to uproar in the Lok Sabha, Home Minister L.K. Advani again failed to introduce the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Bill to replace the POTO for the second day today.
The Opposition had stonewalled the bill’s introduction yesterday.
Soon after the Rajya Sabha assembled for question hour in the morning, the House was thrown into turmoil as Opposition members were on their feet shouting “coffin chor, gaddi chhoro”. Within minutes, Chairman Krishan Kant adjourned the House till 12 noon.
When it met again, the Opposition persisted with its demand for the resignation of Defence Minister George Fernandes and the Chairman adjourned the House for the day after listed papers were tabled amidst the din.
Congress and Left party members were seen waving copies of the CAG report which indicted the government for financial impropriety on defence purchases for Kargil operations, including procurement of coffins for the dead war heroes.
Some members displayed newspapers carrying the CAG report today.
In the Lok Sabha, agitated Opposition members raised slogans as soon as the House assembled in the morning, pressing for the ouster of Mr Fernandes.
Unlike yesterday when Opposition members stormed the well defying the recently adopted Code of Conduct and threw papers, today leaders of various parties directed their members against moving in to the well.
With no signs of restoration of order, Speaker G M C Balayogi adjourned the House till mid-day.
It was a repeat of the morning uproar when the House re-assembled with Opposition members shouting “gaddi chhoro” (leave the chair) and “Sena khoon bahati hai, sarkar dalali khati hai” (Soldiers shed blood, government takes commission).
As the din continued, Deputy Speaker Sayeed adjourned the House till 2.30 pm.
11 killed in attack on Parliament
New Delhi, December 13, 2001.
In the most daring attack ever launched against the Indian state, at least half a dozen armed men stormed into the Parliament House complex today and opened indiscriminate firing, injuring an unspecified number of persons.
The firing started around 11.40 a.m. soon after the Houses of the Parliament were adjourned for the day on the Kargil Coffin issue.
Many MPs, mediapersons and Parliament staff were inside the complex when the firing started, setting off a panic in the complex.
Six terrorists, armed with AK-47 rifles and explosives, set off massive blasts, followed by heavy exchange of fire with police and security forces.
According to reports, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel tried to stop the suspected Afghan-based terrorists as they approached the Parliament in uniform in a government official car, and they reacted by firing indiscriminately.
The heavily-armed terrorists wore commando uniforms and breached security. Security has been beefed up in Delhi. Black cat commandoes and Delhi police commandoes have been deployed in strength in and around the complex. A red alert has also been sounded and all high rise buildings have been put under police surveillance.
Parliament Affairs Minister Pramod Mahajan said four of the six terrorists had been killed and the hunt was on for the remaining two. Unconfirmed reports said five of the armed men were killed in the intense cross-firing with security forces. Doctors at a nearby hospital said at least five guards and a worker were killed and 16 people seriously injured. Reports said the firing had ceased now.
Over 200 MPs were inside the premises at the time of the attack. The Army was called in after the incident. Defence Minister George Fernandes said the terrorists tried to lob hand-grenades into the Parliament building, but were not successful. Both Fernandes and Law Minister Arun Jaitley confirmed that while terrorists had in fact penetrated the compound, they had failed to enter the main building.
Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee has spoken to President K R Narayanan and apprised him of the shoot out by terrorists in Parliament House. Parliament Affairs Minister Pramod Mahajan has taken in charge of the security of the MPs still inside the Parliament building.
In the most daring attack ever launched against the Indian state, at least half a dozen armed men stormed into the Parliament House complex today and opened indiscriminate firing, injuring an unspecified number of persons.
The firing started around 11.40 a.m. soon after the Houses of the Parliament were adjourned for the day on the Kargil Coffin issue.
Many MPs, mediapersons and Parliament staff were inside the complex when the firing started, setting off a panic in the complex.
Six terrorists, armed with AK-47 rifles and explosives, set off massive blasts, followed by heavy exchange of fire with police and security forces.
According to reports, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel tried to stop the suspected Afghan-based terrorists as they approached the Parliament in uniform in a government official car, and they reacted by firing indiscriminately.
The heavily-armed terrorists wore commando uniforms and breached security. Security has been beefed up in Delhi. Black cat commandoes and Delhi police commandoes have been deployed in strength in and around the complex. A red alert has also been sounded and all high rise buildings have been put under police surveillance.
Parliament Affairs Minister Pramod Mahajan said four of the six terrorists had been killed and the hunt was on for the remaining two. Unconfirmed reports said five of the armed men were killed in the intense cross-firing with security forces. Doctors at a nearby hospital said at least five guards and a worker were killed and 16 people seriously injured. Reports said the firing had ceased now.
Over 200 MPs were inside the premises at the time of the attack. The Army was called in after the incident. Defence Minister George Fernandes said the terrorists tried to lob hand-grenades into the Parliament building, but were not successful. Both Fernandes and Law Minister Arun Jaitley confirmed that while terrorists had in fact penetrated the compound, they had failed to enter the main building.
Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee has spoken to President K R Narayanan and apprised him of the shoot out by terrorists in Parliament House. Parliament Affairs Minister Pramod Mahajan has taken in charge of the security of the MPs still inside the Parliament building.
India, Japan for total elimination of terrorism
Tokyo, December 10, 2001.
Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee today told the Japanese Prime Minister, Mr Junichiro Koizumi, that though India was prepared to talk to Pakistan, Kashmir could not be the focal point of discussion. Mr Koizumi suggested that as the G-8 summit was scheduled to discuss terrorism, the two countries should cooperate with each other at that forum too.
The Prime Minister, who met his Japanese counterpart today for over 30 minutes after he was formally received in the Capital, said India had always stood for dialogue with its neighbour.
Later, the two sides released a joint declaration that said that there was no place for a nation which talked against global terrorism but continued to support it in one way or the other. Pakistan was not named by either side but it was obvious that the country’s support to terrorist groups inside Jammu and Kashmir came up for discussion during the talks.
Incidentally, Japan is the biggest aid donor to Pakistan and the two countries have shared close ties. The Japan-Pakistan relations are supposed to be closer than the Japan-India ties over a period of time. Yet, the two sides stood shoulder to shoulder today and the joint declaration issued after Mr Vajpayee’s meetings with the PM and the Japanese Finance and Foreign Ministers, clearly expressed opposition to terrorism — wherever, whenever and for whatever reason.
The two leaders said they believed that the fight against terrorism had to be comprehensive and sustained with the objective of total elimination of terrorism in all regions. They shared the view that the fight was not only against the perpetrators of terrorist acts but also against those who provided support, sustenance and safe haven to such persons. In this regard, they shared the view on the importance of implementation of the UN Security Council resolutions pertaining to terrorism and the 12 UN counter-terrorism conventions.
They also recognised the importance of strengthening the international legal framework against terrorism and Japan confirmed that it would cooperate with India for early adoption of India’s proposed Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism , which is currently under discussion in the UN. The joint declaration marks a sort of a watershed in Japan-India ties as the two sides have decided to comprehensively develop economic and strategic ties that Mr Vajpayee has been referring to ever since he arrived on Japanese soil on December 7.
That the two leaders share a special rapport was underscored by the fact that they had decided to wear similar jackets during the meeting. Mr Vajpayee was the one who could not wear the specially tailored jacket as it was too short for him. He apologised for not having kept his commitment and said he would have to go on a diet to fit into it. He assured that the next time around he would have reduced sufficiently to wear this piece of clothing.
Mr Vajpayee raised a toast to the “continued peace, progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Japan” and “to eternal friendship” between the two nations at a banquet hosted by the Japanese Prime Minister later in the evening. The spirit of bonhomie between the two delegations was palpable during all the meetings.
The Prime Minister also described the birth of a baby daughter to the crown prince and the princess as the arrival of “kanya rattan” and said he had come to the country at an auspicious moment. A navrattan necklace was sent to the Royal Palace as a gift to the girl child. Mr Vajpayee is scheduled to have an audience with the Emperor tomorrow morning before he emplanes for New Delhi.
Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee today told the Japanese Prime Minister, Mr Junichiro Koizumi, that though India was prepared to talk to Pakistan, Kashmir could not be the focal point of discussion. Mr Koizumi suggested that as the G-8 summit was scheduled to discuss terrorism, the two countries should cooperate with each other at that forum too.
The Prime Minister, who met his Japanese counterpart today for over 30 minutes after he was formally received in the Capital, said India had always stood for dialogue with its neighbour.
Later, the two sides released a joint declaration that said that there was no place for a nation which talked against global terrorism but continued to support it in one way or the other. Pakistan was not named by either side but it was obvious that the country’s support to terrorist groups inside Jammu and Kashmir came up for discussion during the talks.
Incidentally, Japan is the biggest aid donor to Pakistan and the two countries have shared close ties. The Japan-Pakistan relations are supposed to be closer than the Japan-India ties over a period of time. Yet, the two sides stood shoulder to shoulder today and the joint declaration issued after Mr Vajpayee’s meetings with the PM and the Japanese Finance and Foreign Ministers, clearly expressed opposition to terrorism — wherever, whenever and for whatever reason.
The two leaders said they believed that the fight against terrorism had to be comprehensive and sustained with the objective of total elimination of terrorism in all regions. They shared the view that the fight was not only against the perpetrators of terrorist acts but also against those who provided support, sustenance and safe haven to such persons. In this regard, they shared the view on the importance of implementation of the UN Security Council resolutions pertaining to terrorism and the 12 UN counter-terrorism conventions.
They also recognised the importance of strengthening the international legal framework against terrorism and Japan confirmed that it would cooperate with India for early adoption of India’s proposed Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism , which is currently under discussion in the UN. The joint declaration marks a sort of a watershed in Japan-India ties as the two sides have decided to comprehensively develop economic and strategic ties that Mr Vajpayee has been referring to ever since he arrived on Japanese soil on December 7.
That the two leaders share a special rapport was underscored by the fact that they had decided to wear similar jackets during the meeting. Mr Vajpayee was the one who could not wear the specially tailored jacket as it was too short for him. He apologised for not having kept his commitment and said he would have to go on a diet to fit into it. He assured that the next time around he would have reduced sufficiently to wear this piece of clothing.
Mr Vajpayee raised a toast to the “continued peace, progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Japan” and “to eternal friendship” between the two nations at a banquet hosted by the Japanese Prime Minister later in the evening. The spirit of bonhomie between the two delegations was palpable during all the meetings.
The Prime Minister also described the birth of a baby daughter to the crown prince and the princess as the arrival of “kanya rattan” and said he had come to the country at an auspicious moment. A navrattan necklace was sent to the Royal Palace as a gift to the girl child. Mr Vajpayee is scheduled to have an audience with the Emperor tomorrow morning before he emplanes for New Delhi.
Naga issue: PM holds talks with rebel group
Osaka, December 8, 2001.
Away from prying eyes at home, Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee today had an hour-long meeting with the leaders of a major Naga rebel group in his effort to bring lasting peace to the trouble-torn region of the country. Mr Vajpayee, who arrived in the city yesterday evening, found time to have a direct dialogue with Mr Isaac Swu and Mr T. Muivah this afternoon. The two are leaders of the Isaac-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN).
Though the talks were supposed to be hush-hush, newsmen covering Mr Vajpayee’s visit to Japan came to know of it and sought clarifications from the government. After much deliberation, the official spokesman released a short statement confirming the visit. The statement said: “At the meeting, it was reiterated that a negotiated , peaceful political settlement remained the objective of the two sides. Further talks between the Government of India and the NSCN (I-M)will take place shortly.”
The PM was accompanied by Mr Brajesh Mishra, Principal Secretary to the PM, and Mr K. Padmanabhaiah, former Home Secretary.
Though the meeting was being speculated upon for the past couple of days, its duration and timing came as a surprise. It is believed that the rebel leaders spoke to Mr Vajpayee more freely and frankly.
However, Mr Vajpayee is not meeting the two leaders for the first time. He had met the group in Paris in 1998. This was subsequent to the peace talks that had begun with the Naga rebels in 1997 and the two sides had begun to discuss the conditions of ceasefire that they had agreed to a year ago.
The Government of India has been trying to bring the Naga rebels to the negotiating table for a long time. Former Prime Minister Narasimha Rao had also met the rebels outside India. Later, Naga leaders had met the then PM, Mr Deve Gowda, during the economic summit in Switzerland in early 1997. The two sides had agreed to a ceasefire but the process was thwarted as the modalities could not be worked out.
During the past one year, there has been a dispute between the government and the rebels over the area to be covered by the ceasefire. It was at the insistence of the rebels that the ceasefire was extended to all parts of the country in June and it led to violent protests in Manipur.
Away from prying eyes at home, Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee today had an hour-long meeting with the leaders of a major Naga rebel group in his effort to bring lasting peace to the trouble-torn region of the country. Mr Vajpayee, who arrived in the city yesterday evening, found time to have a direct dialogue with Mr Isaac Swu and Mr T. Muivah this afternoon. The two are leaders of the Isaac-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN).
Though the talks were supposed to be hush-hush, newsmen covering Mr Vajpayee’s visit to Japan came to know of it and sought clarifications from the government. After much deliberation, the official spokesman released a short statement confirming the visit. The statement said: “At the meeting, it was reiterated that a negotiated , peaceful political settlement remained the objective of the two sides. Further talks between the Government of India and the NSCN (I-M)will take place shortly.”
The PM was accompanied by Mr Brajesh Mishra, Principal Secretary to the PM, and Mr K. Padmanabhaiah, former Home Secretary.
Though the meeting was being speculated upon for the past couple of days, its duration and timing came as a surprise. It is believed that the rebel leaders spoke to Mr Vajpayee more freely and frankly.
However, Mr Vajpayee is not meeting the two leaders for the first time. He had met the group in Paris in 1998. This was subsequent to the peace talks that had begun with the Naga rebels in 1997 and the two sides had begun to discuss the conditions of ceasefire that they had agreed to a year ago.
The Government of India has been trying to bring the Naga rebels to the negotiating table for a long time. Former Prime Minister Narasimha Rao had also met the rebels outside India. Later, Naga leaders had met the then PM, Mr Deve Gowda, during the economic summit in Switzerland in early 1997. The two sides had agreed to a ceasefire but the process was thwarted as the modalities could not be worked out.
During the past one year, there has been a dispute between the government and the rebels over the area to be covered by the ceasefire. It was at the insistence of the rebels that the ceasefire was extended to all parts of the country in June and it led to violent protests in Manipur.
Vajpayee favours strong trade ties with Japan
Osaka (Japan), December 8, 2001.
The Indian delegation led by the Prime Minister, Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee, today made a strong sales pitch before top Japanese trade and industry leaders pointing out that it was surprising that economic and business relations between the two countries do not adequately match the depth of cultural and spiritual ties between the two nations. “We must remove this mismatch,” Mr Vajpayee told the audience.
Besides the Prime Minister, the Minister for Disinvestment, Mr Arun Shourie, the Minister of State for External Affairs, Mr Omar Abdullah, President of the Confederation of Indian Industries, Mr Sanjiv Goenka and President of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Mr R.S. Lodha stressed the need for both the countries to strengthen economic ties for mutual benefit.
The India business meeting held in the industrial district of Kansai was hosted by leading business associations of this area. The business turnover of this small area from knowledge-based and other activities accounts for about 20 per cent of Japan’s GDP.
Mr Vajpayee stressed the economic importance of Kansai district in his opening remarks last year when he said just as the then Prime Minister of Japan Mr Mori had started his August, 2000, visit to India not from Delhi but from Bangalore, he too was “delighted” to commence his visit from the “industrial heart of Japan.”
Mr Vajpayee said there was a natural convergence between India’s development needs and Japanese investment needs. “This complement, I believe, can nurture a vastly expanded agenda of economic and business cooperation in the new century.”
He said India was a huge country with enormous needs of infrastructure and investment in manufacturing and services and also had a large base of quality and value conscious consumers. “Japan has a huge economy,” he said and pointed out that it currently had significant underutilised capacity. The two should come together for achieving greater benefit from each other, he said.
Mr Vajpayee painted an optimistic picture of the Indian polity and economy before this select gathering. He said more than ever before India offered excellent opportunities to do business as because of political stability there was a growing commitment to carry out further political reforms across the political spectrum.
He sounded confident and drew applause when he said despite the “global economic slowdown, our growth prospects , even in the short term , are brighter than elsewhere. Our objective is to double per capita income in the next 10 years and this requires a minimum growth rate of over 8 per cent. We can and we shall achieve this higher growth rate by speeding up our economic reforms. In particular, we are committed to simplification, rationalisation and ensuring transparency of regulatory procedures and institutions.”
The speech obviously impressed the industry captains for they gave Mr Vajpayee a standing ovation when he ended his discourse inviting the Japanese to invest in India saying that “I have no doubt that your increased participation will not disappoint your shareholders — as indeed they have not for the Japanese firms already in India.” On his part, Mr Vajpayee went on to say “I encourage businessmen from both sides who are present here today to look for ways and means of enhancing cooperation. We are willing to look at any improvements that you may suggest.”
Mr Vajpayee attended a banquet later in the evening hosted by the Governor of Osaka Perfecture and Mayor of Osaka city. He is leaving for Tokyo tomorrow morning for interaction with top Japanese political leaders and other members of the Japanese business community.
The Indian delegation led by the Prime Minister, Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee, today made a strong sales pitch before top Japanese trade and industry leaders pointing out that it was surprising that economic and business relations between the two countries do not adequately match the depth of cultural and spiritual ties between the two nations. “We must remove this mismatch,” Mr Vajpayee told the audience.
Besides the Prime Minister, the Minister for Disinvestment, Mr Arun Shourie, the Minister of State for External Affairs, Mr Omar Abdullah, President of the Confederation of Indian Industries, Mr Sanjiv Goenka and President of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Mr R.S. Lodha stressed the need for both the countries to strengthen economic ties for mutual benefit.
The India business meeting held in the industrial district of Kansai was hosted by leading business associations of this area. The business turnover of this small area from knowledge-based and other activities accounts for about 20 per cent of Japan’s GDP.
Mr Vajpayee stressed the economic importance of Kansai district in his opening remarks last year when he said just as the then Prime Minister of Japan Mr Mori had started his August, 2000, visit to India not from Delhi but from Bangalore, he too was “delighted” to commence his visit from the “industrial heart of Japan.”
Mr Vajpayee said there was a natural convergence between India’s development needs and Japanese investment needs. “This complement, I believe, can nurture a vastly expanded agenda of economic and business cooperation in the new century.”
He said India was a huge country with enormous needs of infrastructure and investment in manufacturing and services and also had a large base of quality and value conscious consumers. “Japan has a huge economy,” he said and pointed out that it currently had significant underutilised capacity. The two should come together for achieving greater benefit from each other, he said.
Mr Vajpayee painted an optimistic picture of the Indian polity and economy before this select gathering. He said more than ever before India offered excellent opportunities to do business as because of political stability there was a growing commitment to carry out further political reforms across the political spectrum.
He sounded confident and drew applause when he said despite the “global economic slowdown, our growth prospects , even in the short term , are brighter than elsewhere. Our objective is to double per capita income in the next 10 years and this requires a minimum growth rate of over 8 per cent. We can and we shall achieve this higher growth rate by speeding up our economic reforms. In particular, we are committed to simplification, rationalisation and ensuring transparency of regulatory procedures and institutions.”
The speech obviously impressed the industry captains for they gave Mr Vajpayee a standing ovation when he ended his discourse inviting the Japanese to invest in India saying that “I have no doubt that your increased participation will not disappoint your shareholders — as indeed they have not for the Japanese firms already in India.” On his part, Mr Vajpayee went on to say “I encourage businessmen from both sides who are present here today to look for ways and means of enhancing cooperation. We are willing to look at any improvements that you may suggest.”
Mr Vajpayee attended a banquet later in the evening hosted by the Governor of Osaka Perfecture and Mayor of Osaka city. He is leaving for Tokyo tomorrow morning for interaction with top Japanese political leaders and other members of the Japanese business community.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Karzai's appointment setback for Pak
New Delhi, December 6, 2001.
The appointment of Mr Hamid Karzai as head of Afghanistan’s interim government is a setback for Pakistan (and Iran) despite his links with the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
Mr Karzai owns three houses in Pakistan — one each in Peshawar, Lahore and Quetta — and has been in touch with the ISI for about two decades. In fact, it was under a strong recommendation of the ISI that he became Deputy Foreign Minister in Afghanistan in 1990-92, well-placed sources said here today.
But his honeymoon with the ISI ended in July, 1999, when his father, Mr Abdul Ahad Karzai, chief of the powerful Popalzai tribe in Kandahar, was assassinated by the Taliban. Mr Karzai naturally believed that the ISI, which had been the mentor of the Taliban, double-crossed his father.
However, the ISI is believed to have reopened its channel with Mr Karzai in the past couple of months courtesy the USA with which he has fantastic rapport. His five brothers and a sister are US greencard holders, though he himself is not.
Sources said Pakistan was feeling itself checkmated in the diplomatic game played in Bonn for the past one week where Mr Karzai was chosen to head the post-Taliban interim administration in Afghanistan because Islamabad had put all its eggs in one basket — former Afghanistan President Burhanuddin Rabbani.
The Pakistani gameplan, sources pointed out, was to salvage some bit of stakes in Afghanistan by getting Mr Rabbani chosen as head of the interim government. Mr Rabbani is a hardcore activist of the Jamaat-e-Islami and that is why the Pakistani strategists found him to be their best man in the current situation.
It is public knowledge that Mr Rabbani had met a Pakistani delegation in Dubai about a fortnight back for closed-door talks on the post-Taliban arrangement in Afghanistan. What very few people know is that the Pakistani delegation was crammed with ISI agents.
Mr Rabbani, incidentally, has had a close relationship with the ISI and is familiar with their working. ISI agents were his "handlers" during the early 1980s when he fought against the Soviets.
The appointment of Mr Hamid Karzai as head of Afghanistan’s interim government is a setback for Pakistan (and Iran) despite his links with the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
Mr Karzai owns three houses in Pakistan — one each in Peshawar, Lahore and Quetta — and has been in touch with the ISI for about two decades. In fact, it was under a strong recommendation of the ISI that he became Deputy Foreign Minister in Afghanistan in 1990-92, well-placed sources said here today.
But his honeymoon with the ISI ended in July, 1999, when his father, Mr Abdul Ahad Karzai, chief of the powerful Popalzai tribe in Kandahar, was assassinated by the Taliban. Mr Karzai naturally believed that the ISI, which had been the mentor of the Taliban, double-crossed his father.
However, the ISI is believed to have reopened its channel with Mr Karzai in the past couple of months courtesy the USA with which he has fantastic rapport. His five brothers and a sister are US greencard holders, though he himself is not.
Sources said Pakistan was feeling itself checkmated in the diplomatic game played in Bonn for the past one week where Mr Karzai was chosen to head the post-Taliban interim administration in Afghanistan because Islamabad had put all its eggs in one basket — former Afghanistan President Burhanuddin Rabbani.
The Pakistani gameplan, sources pointed out, was to salvage some bit of stakes in Afghanistan by getting Mr Rabbani chosen as head of the interim government. Mr Rabbani is a hardcore activist of the Jamaat-e-Islami and that is why the Pakistani strategists found him to be their best man in the current situation.
It is public knowledge that Mr Rabbani had met a Pakistani delegation in Dubai about a fortnight back for closed-door talks on the post-Taliban arrangement in Afghanistan. What very few people know is that the Pakistani delegation was crammed with ISI agents.
Mr Rabbani, incidentally, has had a close relationship with the ISI and is familiar with their working. ISI agents were his "handlers" during the early 1980s when he fought against the Soviets.
Ceasefire announced
Quetta (Pakistan), December 6, 2001.
One of the Pashtun tribal forces fighting the Taliban near their last stronghold of Kandahar announced an immediate ceasefire today following talks on a peaceful handover of the city, a spokesman said.
"We have actually proclaimed a ceasefire today," Khalid Pashtoon, spokesman for a Pashtun tribal army led by former Kandahar Governor Gul Agha, told Reuters.
"Today we did not go forward to fight (because of the talks)," he said on the telephone.
Gul Agha’s fighters had been trying to dislodge Taliban forces entrenched in Kandahar airport to the south of the city, the birthplace and last bastion of the hardline militia. Reuters
One of the Pashtun tribal forces fighting the Taliban near their last stronghold of Kandahar announced an immediate ceasefire today following talks on a peaceful handover of the city, a spokesman said.
"We have actually proclaimed a ceasefire today," Khalid Pashtoon, spokesman for a Pashtun tribal army led by former Kandahar Governor Gul Agha, told Reuters.
"Today we did not go forward to fight (because of the talks)," he said on the telephone.
Gul Agha’s fighters had been trying to dislodge Taliban forces entrenched in Kandahar airport to the south of the city, the birthplace and last bastion of the hardline militia. Reuters
Kandahar crumbling
Mullah Omar agrees to surrender
Islamabad, December 6, 2001.
Cornered Taliban today appeared to be losing their last stronghold with their supremo Mullah Mohammad Omar reportedly deciding to surrender the southern Afghan city of Kandahar to local Mujahideen even as ground and air attacks were under way in Tora Bora mountain range to flush out Osama bin Laden’s fighters.
“Mullah Mohammad Omar has decided that Kandahar should be handed over to former jehadi commander Mullah Naqibullah,” Pakistan-based Afghan Islamic Press news agency quoted an unnamed Taliban spokesman as saying.
“A decision has also been taken to form a commission which would be headed by Mullah Naqibullah who will also act as Governor of Kandahar.
“Mullah Omar has taken the decision in consultation with tribal leaders and his associates and the ulema. The decision will be implemented in one or two days,” the spokesman said.
A spokesman of US-led coalition in Afghanistan said Mullah Omar may be trying to surrender to the country’s new interim leader Hamid Karzai whose forces are massed near Kandahar.
“I can tell you authoritatively that some of Mullah Omar’s most senior commanders are negotiating their own surrender,” Kenton Keith told reporters here.
“You should also take seriously reports that Mullah Omar himself is negotiating to save his own skin,” Keith said. Until now the militia supremo had ordered his troops to fight to death against opposition forces backed by the USA.
There was no independent confirmation of the AIP report, which said that the handover would be completed in a few days.
The agency, which is close to Taliban, did not say clearly whether if Omar surrendered would he be allowed safe passage from the city.
The report was also silent on the fate of those Taliban and Al-Qaida fighters who surrender.
The report of Mullah Omar’s decision to surrender came close on the heels of Karzai saying he had held “very productive” talks with a Taliban delegation.
Karzai said he had offered amnesty to Taliban fighters except Mullah Omar. Karzai, who took charge on December 22 for six months, said: “Foreign terrorists must be tried and expelled”.
In Washington, US Defence Secretary Donald Rumsfeld said most leaders of Taliban and Al-Qaida militant group were alive and at large in Afghanistan despite the military campaign against them.
Ground and air strikes continued against fighters loyal to Bin Laden’s Al-Qaida network in the Tora Bora area of eastern Afghanistan.
Islamabad, December 6, 2001.
Cornered Taliban today appeared to be losing their last stronghold with their supremo Mullah Mohammad Omar reportedly deciding to surrender the southern Afghan city of Kandahar to local Mujahideen even as ground and air attacks were under way in Tora Bora mountain range to flush out Osama bin Laden’s fighters.
“Mullah Mohammad Omar has decided that Kandahar should be handed over to former jehadi commander Mullah Naqibullah,” Pakistan-based Afghan Islamic Press news agency quoted an unnamed Taliban spokesman as saying.
“A decision has also been taken to form a commission which would be headed by Mullah Naqibullah who will also act as Governor of Kandahar.
“Mullah Omar has taken the decision in consultation with tribal leaders and his associates and the ulema. The decision will be implemented in one or two days,” the spokesman said.
A spokesman of US-led coalition in Afghanistan said Mullah Omar may be trying to surrender to the country’s new interim leader Hamid Karzai whose forces are massed near Kandahar.
“I can tell you authoritatively that some of Mullah Omar’s most senior commanders are negotiating their own surrender,” Kenton Keith told reporters here.
“You should also take seriously reports that Mullah Omar himself is negotiating to save his own skin,” Keith said. Until now the militia supremo had ordered his troops to fight to death against opposition forces backed by the USA.
There was no independent confirmation of the AIP report, which said that the handover would be completed in a few days.
The agency, which is close to Taliban, did not say clearly whether if Omar surrendered would he be allowed safe passage from the city.
The report was also silent on the fate of those Taliban and Al-Qaida fighters who surrender.
The report of Mullah Omar’s decision to surrender came close on the heels of Karzai saying he had held “very productive” talks with a Taliban delegation.
Karzai said he had offered amnesty to Taliban fighters except Mullah Omar. Karzai, who took charge on December 22 for six months, said: “Foreign terrorists must be tried and expelled”.
In Washington, US Defence Secretary Donald Rumsfeld said most leaders of Taliban and Al-Qaida militant group were alive and at large in Afghanistan despite the military campaign against them.
Ground and air strikes continued against fighters loyal to Bin Laden’s Al-Qaida network in the Tora Bora area of eastern Afghanistan.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Cabinet to discuss POTO changes today
Joint session likely on Bill
New Delhi, December 5, 2001
Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee today said the Union Cabinet would discuss tomorrow amendments to the Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance.
Replying to questions in this regard at an Iftaar hosted by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, he said the “Cabinet will discuss amendments to POTO tomorrow.”
Mr Vajpayee declined to comment when asked whether the government was considering convening of a joint session of Parliament to adopt the Bill if it failed in the Rajya Sabha.
As reporters shot more questions, Dr Abdullah took the Prime Minister away.
Among others present at the party were Vice-President Krishan Kant, former Prime Ministers I.K. Gujaral, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Congress president and Leader of Opposition Sonia Gandhi, Lok Sabha Speaker GMC Balayogi, Centre’s interlocutor on Kashmir K.C. Pant, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, Nationalist Congress Party president Sharad Pawar besides several other Union Ministers and senior bureaucrats from the state and the Central Government. The government is in minority in the Upper House, the POTO may fail to get the approval of the Rajya Sabha.
The Bharatiya Janata Party favoured a joint session of Parliament to ensure passage of a Bill meant to convert the Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance (POTO) into a law.
BJP spokesman Vijay Kumar Malhotra accused the Congress of placing party interests above national interest by opposing the POTO.
The Bill to replace POTO would be introduced in Parliament on December 10 or 11 and would come up for discussion on December 12 and 13, Mr Malhotra said adding that a final decision to take the Bill to a joint session would be taken by the Government.
Prof Malhotra said the Government wanted to evolve consensus among political parties to deal firmly with terrorism, but the Congress was interested more in vote bank politics after having misused similar law in the past.
Picking up the Congress for the BJP’s wrath particularly, the BJP spokesman said while the left Parties and the Samajwadi Party opposed the Bill, consistently it was the Congress attitude that created confusion.
The Congress was also opposing proxy voting for defence personnel, which would not send right signals and would evoke adverse reactions, he said.
To the charge, Mr Malhotra S.Jaipal Reddy of the Congress said, “the boot is on the other leg”.
It was the BJP-led government which confronted the country with the POTO a few hours before the notification for the winter session of Parliament was issued, he said.
Mr Reddy accused the government of adopting a confrontationist course on the POTO.
New Delhi, December 5, 2001
Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee today said the Union Cabinet would discuss tomorrow amendments to the Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance.
Replying to questions in this regard at an Iftaar hosted by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, he said the “Cabinet will discuss amendments to POTO tomorrow.”
Mr Vajpayee declined to comment when asked whether the government was considering convening of a joint session of Parliament to adopt the Bill if it failed in the Rajya Sabha.
As reporters shot more questions, Dr Abdullah took the Prime Minister away.
Among others present at the party were Vice-President Krishan Kant, former Prime Ministers I.K. Gujaral, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Congress president and Leader of Opposition Sonia Gandhi, Lok Sabha Speaker GMC Balayogi, Centre’s interlocutor on Kashmir K.C. Pant, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, Nationalist Congress Party president Sharad Pawar besides several other Union Ministers and senior bureaucrats from the state and the Central Government. The government is in minority in the Upper House, the POTO may fail to get the approval of the Rajya Sabha.
The Bharatiya Janata Party favoured a joint session of Parliament to ensure passage of a Bill meant to convert the Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance (POTO) into a law.
BJP spokesman Vijay Kumar Malhotra accused the Congress of placing party interests above national interest by opposing the POTO.
The Bill to replace POTO would be introduced in Parliament on December 10 or 11 and would come up for discussion on December 12 and 13, Mr Malhotra said adding that a final decision to take the Bill to a joint session would be taken by the Government.
Prof Malhotra said the Government wanted to evolve consensus among political parties to deal firmly with terrorism, but the Congress was interested more in vote bank politics after having misused similar law in the past.
Picking up the Congress for the BJP’s wrath particularly, the BJP spokesman said while the left Parties and the Samajwadi Party opposed the Bill, consistently it was the Congress attitude that created confusion.
The Congress was also opposing proxy voting for defence personnel, which would not send right signals and would evoke adverse reactions, he said.
To the charge, Mr Malhotra S.Jaipal Reddy of the Congress said, “the boot is on the other leg”.
It was the BJP-led government which confronted the country with the POTO a few hours before the notification for the winter session of Parliament was issued, he said.
Mr Reddy accused the government of adopting a confrontationist course on the POTO.
PWG blasts Orissa minister’s house
Fresh bout of violence in Andhra
New Delhi, December 2, 2002.
Intensifying their attacks, Naxalites of the People’s War Group blew up the house of a minister in Orissa even as they unleashed a fresh bout of violence in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh for the third successive day, killing a contractor and blasting the houses of a ruling TDP MLA.
A group of 25 Naxalites, some of them in fatigues, attacked the residence of Orissa Minister for Cooperation, Handlooms and Textiles Arabinda Dhali at Poteru village in Malkangiri district, asked three of his relatives to come out before setting off an explosive device last night, the police said.
Mr Dhali, a BJP MLA from Malkangiri (SC) constituency, was away at the time of the incident.
Earlier, the ultras surrounded Poteru police outpost, ordered three policemen to get out and triggered a blast which brought down a part of the asbestos-roofed building.
The policemen said they were standing on the road after dinner at around 9 p.m. when the armed Naxalites appeared and asked them to raise their hands. Completely outnumbered, they stepped aside as the rebels went inside the building and triggered the blast.
In Andhra Pradesh, PWG ultras shot dead a 42-year-old civil contractor in Medak district, made an abortive bid to ambush three police stations and destroyed two houses of ruling party MLA Y.V. Satyanarayana in Visakhapatnam and East Godavari districts last night.
A mandal revenue office building at Gudem Kotha Veedhi and a telephone exchange at RV Nagar in Visakhapatnam district were also blasted with explosives which caused extensive damage to both, the police said.
A group of 20 to 30 armed Naxalites also opened fire at Ramavaram police station in the district which prompted the police to retaliate.
They said Naxalites also blew up a guest house and office of a paper mill at Viduranagara in East Godavari district. The fresh wave of attacks by Naxalites in the state has come in the backdrop of stern warning by DGP H.J. Dora that ultras would have to pay a heavy price for their unabated acts of “mindless violence”. PTI
New Delhi, December 2, 2002.
Intensifying their attacks, Naxalites of the People’s War Group blew up the house of a minister in Orissa even as they unleashed a fresh bout of violence in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh for the third successive day, killing a contractor and blasting the houses of a ruling TDP MLA.
A group of 25 Naxalites, some of them in fatigues, attacked the residence of Orissa Minister for Cooperation, Handlooms and Textiles Arabinda Dhali at Poteru village in Malkangiri district, asked three of his relatives to come out before setting off an explosive device last night, the police said.
Mr Dhali, a BJP MLA from Malkangiri (SC) constituency, was away at the time of the incident.
Earlier, the ultras surrounded Poteru police outpost, ordered three policemen to get out and triggered a blast which brought down a part of the asbestos-roofed building.
The policemen said they were standing on the road after dinner at around 9 p.m. when the armed Naxalites appeared and asked them to raise their hands. Completely outnumbered, they stepped aside as the rebels went inside the building and triggered the blast.
In Andhra Pradesh, PWG ultras shot dead a 42-year-old civil contractor in Medak district, made an abortive bid to ambush three police stations and destroyed two houses of ruling party MLA Y.V. Satyanarayana in Visakhapatnam and East Godavari districts last night.
A mandal revenue office building at Gudem Kotha Veedhi and a telephone exchange at RV Nagar in Visakhapatnam district were also blasted with explosives which caused extensive damage to both, the police said.
A group of 20 to 30 armed Naxalites also opened fire at Ramavaram police station in the district which prompted the police to retaliate.
They said Naxalites also blew up a guest house and office of a paper mill at Viduranagara in East Godavari district. The fresh wave of attacks by Naxalites in the state has come in the backdrop of stern warning by DGP H.J. Dora that ultras would have to pay a heavy price for their unabated acts of “mindless violence”. PTI
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Oppn takes exception to PM’s statement on temple attacks
New Delhi, December 2, 2002.
The Lok Sabha proceedings came virtually to a halt for 20 minutes during zero hour today when the Opposition, led by the Congress, took serious exception to Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee’s reported statement in Himachal Pradesh yesterday that the previous governments had neglected the defence of the country.
Congress Chief Whip P R Dasmunshi also raised objection to the Prime Minister sharing information such as possible terrorist attacks on more temples outside Parliament even as the Winter session was on.
The Congress leader kept pressing for an explanation from the government even after Deputy Speaker P.M. Sayeed made it clear that he had no powers to ensure it.
Mr Dasmunshi said the Prime Minister should come to the House and give an explanation. Even the Deputy Prime Minister and other ministers were making important statements outside, undermining the authority of Parliament which had the right to have such information in the first place.
Prof V.K. Malhotra (BJP) countered the Congress stand stating that the Prime Minister’s statement was not a policy matter and as such it was not necessary to announce it in Parliament first.
The Congress member pointed out that Mr Vajpayee had also prior information on the attack on Parliament House, but the government did nothing to prevent it.
Mr Somnath Chatterjee (CPM) said the Prime Minister’s statement could not be construed as a campaign speech since, unlike Gujarat, there was no election in Himachal Pradesh.
Mr Dasmunshi said the Congress had fully cooperated with the government on several occasions in the fight against terrorism. The security of the country was not the responsibility of the Prime Minister and his deputy alone.
Earlier, Mr Dasmunshi had raised the matter during question hour as well, stating that Mr Vajpayee’s statement was “motivated with an eye on political gains.”
As soon as the Lok Sabha assembled to take up question hour, Mr Dasmunshi got up and sought clarification on the issue.
The timing and intent of the statement was confusing for the people and the government should come out with more details, he said.
Speaker Manohar Joshi told him to raise the issue during zero hour.
The Lok Sabha proceedings came virtually to a halt for 20 minutes during zero hour today when the Opposition, led by the Congress, took serious exception to Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee’s reported statement in Himachal Pradesh yesterday that the previous governments had neglected the defence of the country.
Congress Chief Whip P R Dasmunshi also raised objection to the Prime Minister sharing information such as possible terrorist attacks on more temples outside Parliament even as the Winter session was on.
The Congress leader kept pressing for an explanation from the government even after Deputy Speaker P.M. Sayeed made it clear that he had no powers to ensure it.
Mr Dasmunshi said the Prime Minister should come to the House and give an explanation. Even the Deputy Prime Minister and other ministers were making important statements outside, undermining the authority of Parliament which had the right to have such information in the first place.
Prof V.K. Malhotra (BJP) countered the Congress stand stating that the Prime Minister’s statement was not a policy matter and as such it was not necessary to announce it in Parliament first.
The Congress member pointed out that Mr Vajpayee had also prior information on the attack on Parliament House, but the government did nothing to prevent it.
Mr Somnath Chatterjee (CPM) said the Prime Minister’s statement could not be construed as a campaign speech since, unlike Gujarat, there was no election in Himachal Pradesh.
Mr Dasmunshi said the Congress had fully cooperated with the government on several occasions in the fight against terrorism. The security of the country was not the responsibility of the Prime Minister and his deputy alone.
Earlier, Mr Dasmunshi had raised the matter during question hour as well, stating that Mr Vajpayee’s statement was “motivated with an eye on political gains.”
As soon as the Lok Sabha assembled to take up question hour, Mr Dasmunshi got up and sought clarification on the issue.
The timing and intent of the statement was confusing for the people and the government should come out with more details, he said.
Speaker Manohar Joshi told him to raise the issue during zero hour.
Putin’s warning on Pak arms serious: PM
Shimla, December 2, 2002
The Prime Minister, Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee, today asked the international community to take a serious notice of the observation made by Mr Vladimir Putin, Russian President, that weapons of mass destruction with Pakistan could fall into the hands of terrorists and bandits.
Mr Vajpayee, who was on a two-day visit to the state, told newsmen before leaving for New Delhi this morning, that Mr Putin’s observation was nothing less than a warning to the world at large which could not be ignored. It was time for the world community to ponder over the matter, he said sharing the Russian President’s concern over the issue.
He said this would be one of the important issues to be discussed during Mr Putin’s forthcoming visit to the country.
Referring to the economic ties with Pakistan, he said the negative response of the neighbouring country was coming in the way of trade relations. India had granted the “most favoured nation” (MFN) status to Pakistan, but it did not respond to it in a positive manner. Not only that, it even failed to implement the decisions taken in the SAARC meeting to improve economic cooperation among the members.
Islamabad was adamant that it would not take any such step until the bilateral issues between the two countries were resolved. He said for better ties we had to delink bilateral issue from initiatives for strengthening trade and economic cooperation. SAARC was not a forum for raising bilateral issues. It was a forum to promote regional cooperation to which the response of Pakistan was negative.
Mr Vajpayee left for Delhi by helicopter. Mr P.S. Badal, a former Punjab Chief Minister, Mr O.P. Chautala, Haryana Chief Minister, and Mr Shanta Kumar, Union Minister for Rural Development, who were here to attend the marriage reception of Mr Anuraag Thakur, a son of the Chief Minister, Mr P.K. Dhumal, also accompanied him. He was seen off by Mr Dhumal, Mr Kishori Lal, Industries Minister, and other ministers and senior officers at the helipad.
The Prime Minister, Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee, today asked the international community to take a serious notice of the observation made by Mr Vladimir Putin, Russian President, that weapons of mass destruction with Pakistan could fall into the hands of terrorists and bandits.
Mr Vajpayee, who was on a two-day visit to the state, told newsmen before leaving for New Delhi this morning, that Mr Putin’s observation was nothing less than a warning to the world at large which could not be ignored. It was time for the world community to ponder over the matter, he said sharing the Russian President’s concern over the issue.
He said this would be one of the important issues to be discussed during Mr Putin’s forthcoming visit to the country.
Referring to the economic ties with Pakistan, he said the negative response of the neighbouring country was coming in the way of trade relations. India had granted the “most favoured nation” (MFN) status to Pakistan, but it did not respond to it in a positive manner. Not only that, it even failed to implement the decisions taken in the SAARC meeting to improve economic cooperation among the members.
Islamabad was adamant that it would not take any such step until the bilateral issues between the two countries were resolved. He said for better ties we had to delink bilateral issue from initiatives for strengthening trade and economic cooperation. SAARC was not a forum for raising bilateral issues. It was a forum to promote regional cooperation to which the response of Pakistan was negative.
Mr Vajpayee left for Delhi by helicopter. Mr P.S. Badal, a former Punjab Chief Minister, Mr O.P. Chautala, Haryana Chief Minister, and Mr Shanta Kumar, Union Minister for Rural Development, who were here to attend the marriage reception of Mr Anuraag Thakur, a son of the Chief Minister, Mr P.K. Dhumal, also accompanied him. He was seen off by Mr Dhumal, Mr Kishori Lal, Industries Minister, and other ministers and senior officers at the helipad.
Hindujas’ trial stayed
New Delhi, December 2, 2002
The Supreme Court today modified its earlier order and stayed the trial proceedings against the three Europe-based Hinduja brothers in the multi-crore Bofors case despite opposition from the CBI.
A Bench comprising Mr Chief Justice G B Pattanaik, Mr Justice K. G. Balakrishnan and Mr Justice S B Sinha stayed for at least four weeks the trial proceedings before Special Judge Prem Kumar, who recently framed charges against them. The stay was given on an application by the Hindujas seeking stay of the trial.
The apex court had on July 12 stayed the Delhi High Court order quashing the charge sheet against the Hinduja brothers and directed the trial to continue. On July 29, the apex court had confirmed its July 12 order.
Today’s Bench, modifying the court’s order, said, “Let there be stay of the trial until the CBI files response to the application filed by Hindujas which may be put up for hearing after four weeks.”
The Bench passed the order saying that it was unusual for the apex court to have allowed the trial proceedings to go on when it admitted the appeal filed by the CBI challenging the high court order quashing the charge sheets against the accused.
Appearing for the CBI, Solicitor-General Harish Salve said it was a usual practice with the courts to allow the trial proceedings to go on when such appeals were admitted.
When the Bench indicated that it was going to stay the trial proceedings, the Solicitor-General raised his voice and said, “Is there special provision for the Hindujas? PTI
The Supreme Court today modified its earlier order and stayed the trial proceedings against the three Europe-based Hinduja brothers in the multi-crore Bofors case despite opposition from the CBI.
A Bench comprising Mr Chief Justice G B Pattanaik, Mr Justice K. G. Balakrishnan and Mr Justice S B Sinha stayed for at least four weeks the trial proceedings before Special Judge Prem Kumar, who recently framed charges against them. The stay was given on an application by the Hindujas seeking stay of the trial.
The apex court had on July 12 stayed the Delhi High Court order quashing the charge sheet against the Hinduja brothers and directed the trial to continue. On July 29, the apex court had confirmed its July 12 order.
Today’s Bench, modifying the court’s order, said, “Let there be stay of the trial until the CBI files response to the application filed by Hindujas which may be put up for hearing after four weeks.”
The Bench passed the order saying that it was unusual for the apex court to have allowed the trial proceedings to go on when it admitted the appeal filed by the CBI challenging the high court order quashing the charge sheets against the accused.
Appearing for the CBI, Solicitor-General Harish Salve said it was a usual practice with the courts to allow the trial proceedings to go on when such appeals were admitted.
When the Bench indicated that it was going to stay the trial proceedings, the Solicitor-General raised his voice and said, “Is there special provision for the Hindujas? PTI
More temples may be targeted: PM
Solan, December 1, 2002
Asserting that India will not bow to terrorism, the Prime Minister, Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee, today said India was prepared to give a befitting reply to terrorism being perpetuated by its neighbouring country.
He was addressing a public gathering after laying the foundation stone of a Rs 100-crore Heritage Park being set up under the aegis of Mohan Meakin Breweries at Harat village, 14 km from here.
Expressing concern that terrorists were targeting religious places, he stated that this would not deter India from its fight against terrorism. The government had specific information that the militants would further target such places in a bid to inflame communal passions amongst various groups. The two attacks on Raghunath Temple in Jammu were aimed at creating a communal divide, besides affecting tourism.
Elucidating on the Centre’s plans to help Himachal, he stated that the Central Government had chalked out a special plan for Himachal and a decision in this regard would soon be taken by his government. With a view to attracting industrial investment, the government had decided to grant excise exemption to industrialists investing in backward areas of Himachal and all necessary help would be provided by the government to the investors.
Stressing on the need to bring about economic development in the country, the Prime Minister stated that it was a matter of pride that despite recession in the South Asian region, our country had progressed and the achievement noticed by the entire world. He lauded the agrarian community for having grown ample foodgrain, despite the drought in as many as 14 states.
The production was not only sufficient to meet the requirements of our country, but also enough for export. The economic development of a country was directly related to good roads and his government endeavoured to provide good connectivity of roads by spending crores.
He lauded the valiant soldiers of the state and exhorted the youth to avail of job opportunities in the IT sector in Himachal, which was emerging as an important centre. Stressing the need to preserve cultural heritage, the Prime Minister stated that Himachal was a land of gods which had a rich cultural heritage which needed to be preserved.
In addition, there was the need to encourage the ancient Indian system of medicine and preserve our cultural heritage. Steps should be taken to undertake research and encourage scholars in this field.
While praising the efforts of Brig (Retd) Kapil Mohan for having undertaking this Rs 100-crore project, he stated that it would become an important tourist attraction centre of this region in years to come. Earlier, speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister, Prof P.K. Dhumal, stated that this heritage centre, was poised to develop as an important world-level centre of naturopathy, religion, ayurveda and yoga, would be well-connected by a network of roads, which would also facilitate the locals in transporting their agriculture produce to markets.
The Union Minister for Rural Development, Mr Shanta Kumar, also spoke. People from villages had turned up in good numbers to listen to the Prime Minister who arrived here for a brief visit in a special chopper.
Others present on the occasion were Brig Kapil Mohan, ministers, the local MLA and chairmen of various boards.
Disappointing ministers and locals, the much-awaited visit of the Prime Minister proved to be damp squib as no package or special aid was announced for the state. The locals, who had turned in good numbers were left high and dry when the Prime Minister returned announcing nothing for the state.
Asserting that India will not bow to terrorism, the Prime Minister, Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee, today said India was prepared to give a befitting reply to terrorism being perpetuated by its neighbouring country.
He was addressing a public gathering after laying the foundation stone of a Rs 100-crore Heritage Park being set up under the aegis of Mohan Meakin Breweries at Harat village, 14 km from here.
Expressing concern that terrorists were targeting religious places, he stated that this would not deter India from its fight against terrorism. The government had specific information that the militants would further target such places in a bid to inflame communal passions amongst various groups. The two attacks on Raghunath Temple in Jammu were aimed at creating a communal divide, besides affecting tourism.
Elucidating on the Centre’s plans to help Himachal, he stated that the Central Government had chalked out a special plan for Himachal and a decision in this regard would soon be taken by his government. With a view to attracting industrial investment, the government had decided to grant excise exemption to industrialists investing in backward areas of Himachal and all necessary help would be provided by the government to the investors.
Stressing on the need to bring about economic development in the country, the Prime Minister stated that it was a matter of pride that despite recession in the South Asian region, our country had progressed and the achievement noticed by the entire world. He lauded the agrarian community for having grown ample foodgrain, despite the drought in as many as 14 states.
The production was not only sufficient to meet the requirements of our country, but also enough for export. The economic development of a country was directly related to good roads and his government endeavoured to provide good connectivity of roads by spending crores.
He lauded the valiant soldiers of the state and exhorted the youth to avail of job opportunities in the IT sector in Himachal, which was emerging as an important centre. Stressing the need to preserve cultural heritage, the Prime Minister stated that Himachal was a land of gods which had a rich cultural heritage which needed to be preserved.
In addition, there was the need to encourage the ancient Indian system of medicine and preserve our cultural heritage. Steps should be taken to undertake research and encourage scholars in this field.
While praising the efforts of Brig (Retd) Kapil Mohan for having undertaking this Rs 100-crore project, he stated that it would become an important tourist attraction centre of this region in years to come. Earlier, speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister, Prof P.K. Dhumal, stated that this heritage centre, was poised to develop as an important world-level centre of naturopathy, religion, ayurveda and yoga, would be well-connected by a network of roads, which would also facilitate the locals in transporting their agriculture produce to markets.
The Union Minister for Rural Development, Mr Shanta Kumar, also spoke. People from villages had turned up in good numbers to listen to the Prime Minister who arrived here for a brief visit in a special chopper.
Others present on the occasion were Brig Kapil Mohan, ministers, the local MLA and chairmen of various boards.
Disappointing ministers and locals, the much-awaited visit of the Prime Minister proved to be damp squib as no package or special aid was announced for the state. The locals, who had turned in good numbers were left high and dry when the Prime Minister returned announcing nothing for the state.
Discussion under Rule 184 rejected
Ayodhya issue paralyses Parliament
NEW DELHI, Dec 11, 2000 — The BJP challenged the Congress to bring a no-confidence motion against the Vajpayee Government after proceedings in Parliament were aborted for the sixth successive day by an adamant opposition demand that three central ministers charged with involvement in the demolition of the Babri masjid resign and that the Prime Minister apologise for his remarks on the temple issue.
Although the Opposition seemed determined not to let the proceedings get under way in both Houses, there were differences on what the Opposition parties wanted. While Samajwadi Party members trooped into the well of the Lok Sabha shouting slogans “Pradhan Mantri isteefa do” (Prime Minister resign), Congress members chanted “we want discussion under Rule 184” which entails voting.
In the melee, Speaker G.M.C Balayogi rejected the notices given by the Congress, Left parties and the Bahujan Samaj Party for a discussion under Rule 184 on the charges framed by a trial court against Union Ministers L.K. Advani, M.M. Joshi and Uma Bharati in the Babri Masjid demolition case.
Giving reasons for the rejection, the Speaker observed that since the matter was pending before the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court in a revision petition filed against the September 9, 1997, order of the Lucknow Special Judge, all notices under Rule 184 were liable to be disallowed.
He also observed that as per the provisions of rules, a notice under Rule 184 to be admissible “shall be restricted to a matter of recent occurrence” and “shall not relate to any matter which is under adjudication by a court of law having jurisdiction in any part of India.”
Soon after his ruling and observing that the stalling of proceedings during the past week had “really pained me”, Mr Balayogi adjourned the House for the day.
Within minutes of its assembling, the Rajya Sabha too witnessed the pandemonium, forcing Chairman Krishan Kant to adjourn the House for the day.
Mr Krishan Kant refused to allow any of the remarks to go on record and said nothing could take precedence over question hour.
The Congress and other Opposition members persisted with their demand in the Upper House for an immediate discussion on the Ayodhya issue.
Even before the Lok Sabha assembled this morning, Samajwadi Party members had surrounded the Speaker’s podium and kept on shouting slogans “kanoon virodhi yeh sarkar nahi chalegi, Babri Masjid girane walon ki sarkar nahin chalegi” (law-breaking government will not run, a government responsible for the demolition of Babri Masjid will not run).
In his ruling, Mr Balayogi said he was duty-bound to follow and enforce the rules made by the House and also ensure that business was transacted in an orderly manner.
Observing that he had placed two proposals before the House in a bid to resolve the stalemate, Mr Balayogi said members wanting a discussion on the matter could give notices in an appropriate form which were admissible under the rules.
Alternatively, he said the House was supreme in procedural matters and could suspend rules if circumstances so demanded.
The notices for a discussion under Rule 184 had been given by Mr S. Jaipal Reddy (Congress), Mr Somnath Chatterjee and four others (CPM), Mr Rashid Alvi (BSP), Mr G.M. Banatwala (Muslim League) and Mr Raghuvansh Prasad Singh (RJD).
The Prime Minister and Mr Advani were not present in the House while Ms Bharti was occupying one of the back benches.
Meanwhile, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pramod Mahajan stated that the Speaker’s ruling was crystal clear and the matter could not be discussed under Rule 184.
“The government does not stand on issue of prestige as far as the rules were concerned,” he said.
Mr Mahajan said following the ruling of the Speaker it was for the Opposition to redraft their motions. But if the Speaker agreed to admit a motion of the Opposition under Rule 184, the government would not have any objection, he added.
The Prime Minister was ready to make a suo motu statement, he said.
The BJP, meanwhile accused the Opposition of holding Parliament to ransom by not allowing normal business to be conducted in the House.
“It is unfortunate that this stalemate is continuing even after Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee was prepared to make a statement and the government was ready for discussion on any issue. Parliament is being held to ransom by a minority”, party spokesman Vijay Kumar Malhotra told reporters here.
VARANASI: The Samajwadi Party will not allow Parliament to function till Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee withdrew his statement on the Ayodhya issue and tendered an unconditional apology to the nation, the General Secretary of the party, Mr Reoti Raman Singh said here today.
“Not only the Opposition but also the coalition partners of the ruling NDA were against Mr Vajpayee’s statement and wanted its immediate withdrawal”, he added.
The CPM meanwhile, charged the non-BJP NDA partners with resorting to “cover-up” of the Prime Minister’s statements on the Ayodhya issue and said they had been “further exposed” by their defence of the three charge-sheeted ministers’ continuance in the Cabinet.
In a statement here, the Polit Bureau also demanded that the Prime Minister should immediately disown his “partisan” remarks on the Ayodhya issue and that the three ministers should quit.
NEW DELHI, Dec 11, 2000 — The BJP challenged the Congress to bring a no-confidence motion against the Vajpayee Government after proceedings in Parliament were aborted for the sixth successive day by an adamant opposition demand that three central ministers charged with involvement in the demolition of the Babri masjid resign and that the Prime Minister apologise for his remarks on the temple issue.
Although the Opposition seemed determined not to let the proceedings get under way in both Houses, there were differences on what the Opposition parties wanted. While Samajwadi Party members trooped into the well of the Lok Sabha shouting slogans “Pradhan Mantri isteefa do” (Prime Minister resign), Congress members chanted “we want discussion under Rule 184” which entails voting.
In the melee, Speaker G.M.C Balayogi rejected the notices given by the Congress, Left parties and the Bahujan Samaj Party for a discussion under Rule 184 on the charges framed by a trial court against Union Ministers L.K. Advani, M.M. Joshi and Uma Bharati in the Babri Masjid demolition case.
Giving reasons for the rejection, the Speaker observed that since the matter was pending before the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court in a revision petition filed against the September 9, 1997, order of the Lucknow Special Judge, all notices under Rule 184 were liable to be disallowed.
He also observed that as per the provisions of rules, a notice under Rule 184 to be admissible “shall be restricted to a matter of recent occurrence” and “shall not relate to any matter which is under adjudication by a court of law having jurisdiction in any part of India.”
Soon after his ruling and observing that the stalling of proceedings during the past week had “really pained me”, Mr Balayogi adjourned the House for the day.
Within minutes of its assembling, the Rajya Sabha too witnessed the pandemonium, forcing Chairman Krishan Kant to adjourn the House for the day.
Mr Krishan Kant refused to allow any of the remarks to go on record and said nothing could take precedence over question hour.
The Congress and other Opposition members persisted with their demand in the Upper House for an immediate discussion on the Ayodhya issue.
Even before the Lok Sabha assembled this morning, Samajwadi Party members had surrounded the Speaker’s podium and kept on shouting slogans “kanoon virodhi yeh sarkar nahi chalegi, Babri Masjid girane walon ki sarkar nahin chalegi” (law-breaking government will not run, a government responsible for the demolition of Babri Masjid will not run).
In his ruling, Mr Balayogi said he was duty-bound to follow and enforce the rules made by the House and also ensure that business was transacted in an orderly manner.
Observing that he had placed two proposals before the House in a bid to resolve the stalemate, Mr Balayogi said members wanting a discussion on the matter could give notices in an appropriate form which were admissible under the rules.
Alternatively, he said the House was supreme in procedural matters and could suspend rules if circumstances so demanded.
The notices for a discussion under Rule 184 had been given by Mr S. Jaipal Reddy (Congress), Mr Somnath Chatterjee and four others (CPM), Mr Rashid Alvi (BSP), Mr G.M. Banatwala (Muslim League) and Mr Raghuvansh Prasad Singh (RJD).
The Prime Minister and Mr Advani were not present in the House while Ms Bharti was occupying one of the back benches.
Meanwhile, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pramod Mahajan stated that the Speaker’s ruling was crystal clear and the matter could not be discussed under Rule 184.
“The government does not stand on issue of prestige as far as the rules were concerned,” he said.
Mr Mahajan said following the ruling of the Speaker it was for the Opposition to redraft their motions. But if the Speaker agreed to admit a motion of the Opposition under Rule 184, the government would not have any objection, he added.
The Prime Minister was ready to make a suo motu statement, he said.
The BJP, meanwhile accused the Opposition of holding Parliament to ransom by not allowing normal business to be conducted in the House.
“It is unfortunate that this stalemate is continuing even after Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee was prepared to make a statement and the government was ready for discussion on any issue. Parliament is being held to ransom by a minority”, party spokesman Vijay Kumar Malhotra told reporters here.
VARANASI: The Samajwadi Party will not allow Parliament to function till Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee withdrew his statement on the Ayodhya issue and tendered an unconditional apology to the nation, the General Secretary of the party, Mr Reoti Raman Singh said here today.
“Not only the Opposition but also the coalition partners of the ruling NDA were against Mr Vajpayee’s statement and wanted its immediate withdrawal”, he added.
The CPM meanwhile, charged the non-BJP NDA partners with resorting to “cover-up” of the Prime Minister’s statements on the Ayodhya issue and said they had been “further exposed” by their defence of the three charge-sheeted ministers’ continuance in the Cabinet.
In a statement here, the Polit Bureau also demanded that the Prime Minister should immediately disown his “partisan” remarks on the Ayodhya issue and that the three ministers should quit.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
No tripartite talks: India
NEW DELHI, Dec 5, 2000 — Ruling out tripartite talks on Jammu and Kashmir, India today made clear that Pakistan needed to initiate more concrete steps, for “an environment suitable for resumption of the composite dialogue”.
In a detailed statement to Islamabad’s response to Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee’s offer of a unilateral ceasefire of November 19, a spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs said: “We expect Pakistan to address our concerns and also those of the international community on cross-border terrorism, infiltration into India, and aiding and abetting of violence. We note that Pakistan is reaffirming its commitment to ‘earlier agreements’. That is why a clear reaffirmation and adherence to the Simla Agreement, and the Lahore Declaration would only be logical”.
Admitting that there was recognisable reduction in firing along the Line of Control and infiltration from across the border had also not taken place in any marked manner, a spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs reiterated the government’s desire to hold talks with all parties and groups in Jammu and Kashmir, including the militants.
The modalities of these talks would be decided by the Government of India, the spokesman pointed out making abundantly clear, that there was no room for “tripartite talks”.
Expressing its commitment to the peace process, the spokesman said India would remain steadfast in that approach. Upon conclusion of the month of Ramzan, the government would review the situation and announce its further course of action.
In a move to further tighten pressure on Islamabad’s military regime, India today not only ruled out “tripartite talks” on Jammu and Kashmir, but also expressed hope that Pakistan would be persuaded to cease promotion of cross-border terrorism so as to create an environment suitable for resumption of the composite dialogue.
Agreeing with Islamabad’s description of its response to Prime Minister Vajpayee’s offer of a unilateral ceasefire as “nothing new” as there was not any “basic shift in the policies of Pakistan”, the spokesman said: “We, too, do not find anything substantially different in Pakistan’s announcements from what they have earlier been saying.”
To Islamabad’s statement that their armed forces “deployed along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir will observe maximum restraint”, the spokesman said the Indian security forces had always exercised utmost restraint in the face of persistent provocation and violations of the LoC and continue to do so.
“At the same time, attempts to misuse this phase and push terrorists will be robustly met”, the spokesman warned, reiterating that “there is no role of any kind for any third party here”.
Leaving enough space for Islamabad to respond to the Indian initiative, the spokesman said the government hoped that this statement of Pakistan “is a precursor of a meaningful change in its attitude”.
New Delhi has refused to rush into the situation and has adopted a very cautious approach to the entire issue of Jammu and Kashmir, the sources said explaining the statement.
The sources said Pakistan would have to make clear in no uncertain terms its stand on the Simla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration as this would mean abandoning the UN resolutions on Kashmir.
New Delhi would first like to assess the situation domestically before moving any further on the issue, the sources said, adding that Mr Vajpayee’s experience from his Lahore bus journey had made the government cautious.
Meanwhile, the Shahi Imam of the Jama Masjid, Syed Ahmed Bukhari, today welcomed the Pakistani offer to exercise restraint at the LoC and urged the Centre to take further steps to resume dialogue with Islamabad and other parties involved in the Kashmir issue.
Describing the Pakistani offer as a step towards restoring peace in the sub-continent, Syed Bukhari said it had created a conducive atmosphere for resuming a dialogue.
In a detailed statement to Islamabad’s response to Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee’s offer of a unilateral ceasefire of November 19, a spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs said: “We expect Pakistan to address our concerns and also those of the international community on cross-border terrorism, infiltration into India, and aiding and abetting of violence. We note that Pakistan is reaffirming its commitment to ‘earlier agreements’. That is why a clear reaffirmation and adherence to the Simla Agreement, and the Lahore Declaration would only be logical”.
Admitting that there was recognisable reduction in firing along the Line of Control and infiltration from across the border had also not taken place in any marked manner, a spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs reiterated the government’s desire to hold talks with all parties and groups in Jammu and Kashmir, including the militants.
The modalities of these talks would be decided by the Government of India, the spokesman pointed out making abundantly clear, that there was no room for “tripartite talks”.
Expressing its commitment to the peace process, the spokesman said India would remain steadfast in that approach. Upon conclusion of the month of Ramzan, the government would review the situation and announce its further course of action.
In a move to further tighten pressure on Islamabad’s military regime, India today not only ruled out “tripartite talks” on Jammu and Kashmir, but also expressed hope that Pakistan would be persuaded to cease promotion of cross-border terrorism so as to create an environment suitable for resumption of the composite dialogue.
Agreeing with Islamabad’s description of its response to Prime Minister Vajpayee’s offer of a unilateral ceasefire as “nothing new” as there was not any “basic shift in the policies of Pakistan”, the spokesman said: “We, too, do not find anything substantially different in Pakistan’s announcements from what they have earlier been saying.”
To Islamabad’s statement that their armed forces “deployed along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir will observe maximum restraint”, the spokesman said the Indian security forces had always exercised utmost restraint in the face of persistent provocation and violations of the LoC and continue to do so.
“At the same time, attempts to misuse this phase and push terrorists will be robustly met”, the spokesman warned, reiterating that “there is no role of any kind for any third party here”.
Leaving enough space for Islamabad to respond to the Indian initiative, the spokesman said the government hoped that this statement of Pakistan “is a precursor of a meaningful change in its attitude”.
New Delhi has refused to rush into the situation and has adopted a very cautious approach to the entire issue of Jammu and Kashmir, the sources said explaining the statement.
The sources said Pakistan would have to make clear in no uncertain terms its stand on the Simla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration as this would mean abandoning the UN resolutions on Kashmir.
New Delhi would first like to assess the situation domestically before moving any further on the issue, the sources said, adding that Mr Vajpayee’s experience from his Lahore bus journey had made the government cautious.
Meanwhile, the Shahi Imam of the Jama Masjid, Syed Ahmed Bukhari, today welcomed the Pakistani offer to exercise restraint at the LoC and urged the Centre to take further steps to resume dialogue with Islamabad and other parties involved in the Kashmir issue.
Describing the Pakistani offer as a step towards restoring peace in the sub-continent, Syed Bukhari said it had created a conducive atmosphere for resuming a dialogue.
Postal services paralysed
NEW DELHI, Dec 5, 2000 — Postal services all over the country were paralysed with more than six lakh employees of the department going on an indefinite strike to demand among other things, higher wages.
The government, maintaining that the employees were attempting to reopen old issues despite the full and final settlement of all pending demands, said it was putting a contingency plan into action, whereby skeletal services would be maintained.
The employees federations — National Federation of Postal Employees, Federation of National Postal Organisations and Bharatiya Postal Employees Federation — claimed 80 per cent success on the first day of the strike with the impact in West Bengal and Kerala being cent per cent.
Employees observed a dharna in front of various post offices in the Capital and a mountain of mail bags lay unattended at airports and stations.
“There are demonstrations in front of all post offices in the Capital and parts of the country”, general secretary of the National Federation of Postal Employees C. Chandran Pillai said.
He said the entire fleet of mail motor service had been grounded. He ruled out the possibility of withdrawing the strike till the government accepted their demands.
On the demands of the federations, an official statement said: “In respect of extra departmental agents, the postal federations have been making fresh demands even though the Group of Ministers considered these demands in 1998 and the Cabinet approved improvement in the working conditions of the ED staff as full and final settlement of all pending demands.”
Announcing the contingency plan, the government said the Chief Post Master-General of all states had been instructed to provide skeletal postal services in respect of transmission and delivery of mail and payment of money.
It has been decided to keep all VSATs functional and speed post services operational throughout the country.
At the headquarters, a control room has been set up to monitor the situation and take appropriate steps towards maintaining essential postal services.
The statement said postal services all over the country had been affected in varying degrees following the strike.
The demands of the employees are: implementation of the positive recommendations of Justice Charanjit Talwar Committee for extra-departmental employees with particular reference to grant of status and pension, implementation of agreed proposals signed on December 18, 1998.
The government, maintaining that the employees were attempting to reopen old issues despite the full and final settlement of all pending demands, said it was putting a contingency plan into action, whereby skeletal services would be maintained.
The employees federations — National Federation of Postal Employees, Federation of National Postal Organisations and Bharatiya Postal Employees Federation — claimed 80 per cent success on the first day of the strike with the impact in West Bengal and Kerala being cent per cent.
Employees observed a dharna in front of various post offices in the Capital and a mountain of mail bags lay unattended at airports and stations.
“There are demonstrations in front of all post offices in the Capital and parts of the country”, general secretary of the National Federation of Postal Employees C. Chandran Pillai said.
He said the entire fleet of mail motor service had been grounded. He ruled out the possibility of withdrawing the strike till the government accepted their demands.
On the demands of the federations, an official statement said: “In respect of extra departmental agents, the postal federations have been making fresh demands even though the Group of Ministers considered these demands in 1998 and the Cabinet approved improvement in the working conditions of the ED staff as full and final settlement of all pending demands.”
Announcing the contingency plan, the government said the Chief Post Master-General of all states had been instructed to provide skeletal postal services in respect of transmission and delivery of mail and payment of money.
It has been decided to keep all VSATs functional and speed post services operational throughout the country.
At the headquarters, a control room has been set up to monitor the situation and take appropriate steps towards maintaining essential postal services.
The statement said postal services all over the country had been affected in varying degrees following the strike.
The demands of the employees are: implementation of the positive recommendations of Justice Charanjit Talwar Committee for extra-departmental employees with particular reference to grant of status and pension, implementation of agreed proposals signed on December 18, 1998.
Life ban on Azhar, Sharma
Jadeja barred for five years
CHENNAI, Dec 5, 2000 (PTI) — Coming down heavily on tainted players, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) today slapped life ban on Mohammed Azharuddin and Ajay Sharma and banned Ajay Jadeja, Manoj Prabhakar and physio Ali Irani for five years for their involvement in betting and match-fixing.
The board exonerated wicketkeeper Nayan Mongia of the charge of match-fixing and Delhi groundsman Ram Adhar of doctoring a pitch.
While Azharuddin and Sharma have been debarred from holding any position in the International Cricket Council or the board or its affiliated associations for life, others have been barred for five years. They will also be denied benefit matches and the board’s contribution to the players fund.
“The disciplinary committee is of the considered opinion that the players and the physiotherapist have conducted themselves in a manner which is prejudicial to the interests of the game of cricket.
“In taking its decision, the disciplinary committee has also kept in mind the contributions made by the players and the physiotherapist to the game,” the board said in a release adding the decision was unanimous.
The board’s action comes in the wake of the CBI report into betting and match-fixing and the subsequent Madhavan report which confirmed the CBI findings except in the case of Mongia.
The board allowed the players and Irani to appeal to it against the punishment awarded to them.
Announcing the decision at a crowded press conference, the board President, Mr A.C. Muthiah, said it was being, communicated to all concerned by the board secretary Mr Jaywant Lele.
Today’s disciplinary committee meeting was attended by Mr Muthiah and Mr K.M. Ram Prasad while the third member and the board Vice-President, Mr Kamal Morarka, who favoured a soft line on the tainted players, was absent.
As the match-fixing scandal rocked the cricketing world, the Government asked the CBI to investigate the entire gamut of the case.
The CBI completed its probe in about six months and named five cricketers including Mongia but cleared the name of Kapil Dev, former Indian captain and coach, who had been accused of bribery for match-fixing by Prabhakar.
On submission of the CBI report to the Government, the board appointed Mr K. Madhavan, a former Joint Director of the CBI as its anti-corruption commissioner to conduct a probe based on the premier investigative agency’s report.
NEW DELHI (UNI): Lambasting the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for its decision to impose a five-year ban on him, Manoj Prabhakar on Tuesday night added a new dimension to the controversy alleging that it was a board member who had introduced him to the betting syndicate.
Prabhakar, who brought to surface the match-fixing scandal in Indian cricket, claimed that a ‘lot of corruption’ plagued the board and demanded that the BCCI also come out clean to end the present mess forever.
Without naming anybody, he claimed that it was a board official who had introduced him to a bookie. He did not divulge the time and place.
CHENNAI, Dec 5, 2000 (PTI) — Coming down heavily on tainted players, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) today slapped life ban on Mohammed Azharuddin and Ajay Sharma and banned Ajay Jadeja, Manoj Prabhakar and physio Ali Irani for five years for their involvement in betting and match-fixing.
The board exonerated wicketkeeper Nayan Mongia of the charge of match-fixing and Delhi groundsman Ram Adhar of doctoring a pitch.
While Azharuddin and Sharma have been debarred from holding any position in the International Cricket Council or the board or its affiliated associations for life, others have been barred for five years. They will also be denied benefit matches and the board’s contribution to the players fund.
“The disciplinary committee is of the considered opinion that the players and the physiotherapist have conducted themselves in a manner which is prejudicial to the interests of the game of cricket.
“In taking its decision, the disciplinary committee has also kept in mind the contributions made by the players and the physiotherapist to the game,” the board said in a release adding the decision was unanimous.
The board’s action comes in the wake of the CBI report into betting and match-fixing and the subsequent Madhavan report which confirmed the CBI findings except in the case of Mongia.
The board allowed the players and Irani to appeal to it against the punishment awarded to them.
Announcing the decision at a crowded press conference, the board President, Mr A.C. Muthiah, said it was being, communicated to all concerned by the board secretary Mr Jaywant Lele.
Today’s disciplinary committee meeting was attended by Mr Muthiah and Mr K.M. Ram Prasad while the third member and the board Vice-President, Mr Kamal Morarka, who favoured a soft line on the tainted players, was absent.
As the match-fixing scandal rocked the cricketing world, the Government asked the CBI to investigate the entire gamut of the case.
The CBI completed its probe in about six months and named five cricketers including Mongia but cleared the name of Kapil Dev, former Indian captain and coach, who had been accused of bribery for match-fixing by Prabhakar.
On submission of the CBI report to the Government, the board appointed Mr K. Madhavan, a former Joint Director of the CBI as its anti-corruption commissioner to conduct a probe based on the premier investigative agency’s report.
NEW DELHI (UNI): Lambasting the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for its decision to impose a five-year ban on him, Manoj Prabhakar on Tuesday night added a new dimension to the controversy alleging that it was a board member who had introduced him to the betting syndicate.
Prabhakar, who brought to surface the match-fixing scandal in Indian cricket, claimed that a ‘lot of corruption’ plagued the board and demanded that the BCCI also come out clean to end the present mess forever.
Without naming anybody, he claimed that it was a board official who had introduced him to a bookie. He did not divulge the time and place.
USA clears export of military wares
New Delhi, December 4, 2001
India today got a major boost in its defence development programme with the USA announcing its approval for seven equipment export licences which would meet India’s immediate military requirements, including vital components for the light combat aircraft (LCA) and weapon locating radars.
Seven applications for export licence have been approved by the US Departments of State and Defence three years after sanctions were imposed in the wake of the nuclear tests carried out by India. The US Departments of State and Defence are in the process of notifying them to the American Congress, Defence Secretary Yogendra Narain and U.S. Under Secretary of Defence for Policy Douglas Feith told reporters here after concluding the two-day meeting of the Defence Policy Group of the two countries.
It was the first meeting after the 1998 nuclear tests. The next meeting will take place in May, 2002.
The prestigious LCA programme had particularly been affected by the sanctions imposed by the USA following the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998.
The USA also agreed to expeditiously review India’s acquisition priorities, including engines and systems for the LCA, multi-mission maritime aircraft, components for the jet trainer and high performance jet engines.
To assist licensing and sales process in future, the two sides agreed to establish a security cooperation group to manage the defence supply relations between India and the USA. This group will meet in February-March next year.
Mr Feith and Mr Narain said the two countries also discussed the issue of supply of dual technology items which could be used for nuclear weapons and missiles. India has got an assurance from the USA that it would look into the issue.
A joint statement issued after the DPG meeting, said the Joint Technical Group under the DPG, dealing with issues relating to sale of weapons, would meet in February-March next year to discuss the promotion of bilateral ties in the field of defence production and research.
The two sides agreed that the Executive Steering Group of the three services would meet before the end of February next to plan and review military-to-military cooperation and oversee implementation of the visits, exercises and training programmes.
Mr Feith said India had been invited to attend certain exercises under the US National Missile Defence programme. This invitation had been extended only to some “friendly countries”. India would also participate in the NMD “briefings”.
Mr Narain, who led the Indian side at the third meeting of the Indo-US Defence Policy Group, said New Delhi also sought some defence equipment, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and night vision equipment for countering terrorism.
“We need this equipment to effectively fight terrorism...It is appropriate to have these weapons...” Mr Feith, who had a 45-minute meeting with Defence Minister George Fernandes this morning, said relations in the defence field were set to prosper in future, and added that strategic relations between the two countries was an important element in promoting peace and stability in the region.
At the two-day meeting, India and the USA exchanged views on the global campaign against international terrorism. Noting that both India and the USA had been targets of terrorism, the two sides agreed to add a new emphasis in their defence cooperation on counter-terrorism initiatives, including expanding mutual support in this area.
India today got a major boost in its defence development programme with the USA announcing its approval for seven equipment export licences which would meet India’s immediate military requirements, including vital components for the light combat aircraft (LCA) and weapon locating radars.
Seven applications for export licence have been approved by the US Departments of State and Defence three years after sanctions were imposed in the wake of the nuclear tests carried out by India. The US Departments of State and Defence are in the process of notifying them to the American Congress, Defence Secretary Yogendra Narain and U.S. Under Secretary of Defence for Policy Douglas Feith told reporters here after concluding the two-day meeting of the Defence Policy Group of the two countries.
It was the first meeting after the 1998 nuclear tests. The next meeting will take place in May, 2002.
The prestigious LCA programme had particularly been affected by the sanctions imposed by the USA following the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998.
The USA also agreed to expeditiously review India’s acquisition priorities, including engines and systems for the LCA, multi-mission maritime aircraft, components for the jet trainer and high performance jet engines.
To assist licensing and sales process in future, the two sides agreed to establish a security cooperation group to manage the defence supply relations between India and the USA. This group will meet in February-March next year.
Mr Feith and Mr Narain said the two countries also discussed the issue of supply of dual technology items which could be used for nuclear weapons and missiles. India has got an assurance from the USA that it would look into the issue.
A joint statement issued after the DPG meeting, said the Joint Technical Group under the DPG, dealing with issues relating to sale of weapons, would meet in February-March next year to discuss the promotion of bilateral ties in the field of defence production and research.
The two sides agreed that the Executive Steering Group of the three services would meet before the end of February next to plan and review military-to-military cooperation and oversee implementation of the visits, exercises and training programmes.
Mr Feith said India had been invited to attend certain exercises under the US National Missile Defence programme. This invitation had been extended only to some “friendly countries”. India would also participate in the NMD “briefings”.
Mr Narain, who led the Indian side at the third meeting of the Indo-US Defence Policy Group, said New Delhi also sought some defence equipment, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and night vision equipment for countering terrorism.
“We need this equipment to effectively fight terrorism...It is appropriate to have these weapons...” Mr Feith, who had a 45-minute meeting with Defence Minister George Fernandes this morning, said relations in the defence field were set to prosper in future, and added that strategic relations between the two countries was an important element in promoting peace and stability in the region.
At the two-day meeting, India and the USA exchanged views on the global campaign against international terrorism. Noting that both India and the USA had been targets of terrorism, the two sides agreed to add a new emphasis in their defence cooperation on counter-terrorism initiatives, including expanding mutual support in this area.
Deep hits maiden Test 100
Chandigarh, December 4, 2001
The first century in Test cricket is always a memorable landmark for any cricketer. And this afternoon when India’s stop-gap opener Deep Dasgupta reached the magical figure of 100 in the first Test against England at the PCA Stadium in SAS Nagar, he had more than proved a point not only to his teammates but also to the national selectors.
It is hoped that with this century this Bengal cricketer must have solved the problem of who will partner Shiv Sunder Das. The gutsy Deep had opened the India innings with a fair amount of success in South Africa. His 63 at the Port Elizabeth Test, when he was pushed into the firing line when no other batsman was willing to shoulder the responsibility, had already given glimpses of what he was capable of. When Deep was included in the national squad for the South Africa tour even the members of the selection committee were not very clear about his capabilities. But today’s showing has not only helped him to prove a point but has also helped his mentors to settle a score or two. What he has to do now is to polish up his keeping a little. Deep has a long international career in front of him and things can only get better for Indian cricket with 24-year-old boy filling a very vital slot.
The fact remains that Deep Dasgupta was playing in the Indian team even in this Test as wicketkeeper. The decision to send him in along with Shiv Sunder Das to open the India innings was taken when the designated opener, Sanjay Bungar, pulled a hamstring muscle while fielding. And Deep grabbed the opportunity with both hands.
Not unwilling to get right behind the ball, Deep has the right temperament to open. And opening is a task that Deep is acquainted with. He started his Ranji Trophy career with Bengal as opener. It is only in the last couple of seasons that he has been batting at No 6.
With this century Deep has joined the select group of Indian wicketkeepers who have scored centuries while opening for the country. The list includes Buddi Kundaran, Farooq Engineer and Nayan Mongia, who scored 152 against Australia at the Ferozeshah Kotla in Delhi in October, 1996.
India’s progress, however, at the PCA Stadium, especially in the first two sessions of play today, was extremely slow and at times the batsmen got bogged down for no apparent reason. The England bowling was mediocre, and at times even pedestrian, but still the batsmen were not willing to go for their strokes. And to make things difficult for the Indians England skipper Nasser Hussain packed his off-side with eight players and then asked his bowlers to bowl way outside the off stump thereby preventing the Indians from scoring. But then the initiative should have been seized by the hosts because after all it is they who have to prove a point after the disaster in South Africa.
England must be happy that they were able to restrict India to 262 for three, just 24 runs ahead, when stumps were drawn for the day. It was only in the third session of play that runs came much more freely, when Sachin Tendulkar joined Rahul Dravid after the dismissal of Deep, out for an exact 100 (338 minutes, 254 balls, 15 fours). While it is understandable that Deep, playing in his first Test in the country and the third of his life, was not willing to chance his arm after having sensed that this was one attack from which he could get his maiden Test century the onus was on Rahul Dravid to grab the advantage for India.
But for no apparent reason Dravid too went into a shell giving the England bowlers a feeling that they were more competent than they actually were. With a Test average of about 50 and being the senior partner Rahul should have grabbed the advantage as India crawled, specially in the second session of play when only 71 runs came in 29 overs. The crawl came as a big disappointment to the fair crowd which had gathered at the stadium today. It was only in the last hour of play when Sachin and Rahul were together that India got some quick runs — 112 runs being added in the third session of play.
The fact that the England bowlers were not menacing was proved by night watchman Anil Kumble who this morning hung around for 103 minutes before he was out after scoring 37 (86 balls six fours). The long stay of Anil Kumble gave enough indication that the England bowlers were pedestrian.
With skipper Saurav Ganguly and V.V. S. Laxman yet to come and Sachin Tendulkar (31 not out in 76 minutes, 53 balls five fours) and Rahul Dravid (78 not out in 266 minutes, 193 balls and nine fours) at the crease England have a tough task on hand when the game resumes tomorrow. There might be something in the PCA Stadium strip even on the third day’s play but England do not have the kind of bolwers needed to grab the advantage.
The first century in Test cricket is always a memorable landmark for any cricketer. And this afternoon when India’s stop-gap opener Deep Dasgupta reached the magical figure of 100 in the first Test against England at the PCA Stadium in SAS Nagar, he had more than proved a point not only to his teammates but also to the national selectors.
It is hoped that with this century this Bengal cricketer must have solved the problem of who will partner Shiv Sunder Das. The gutsy Deep had opened the India innings with a fair amount of success in South Africa. His 63 at the Port Elizabeth Test, when he was pushed into the firing line when no other batsman was willing to shoulder the responsibility, had already given glimpses of what he was capable of. When Deep was included in the national squad for the South Africa tour even the members of the selection committee were not very clear about his capabilities. But today’s showing has not only helped him to prove a point but has also helped his mentors to settle a score or two. What he has to do now is to polish up his keeping a little. Deep has a long international career in front of him and things can only get better for Indian cricket with 24-year-old boy filling a very vital slot.
The fact remains that Deep Dasgupta was playing in the Indian team even in this Test as wicketkeeper. The decision to send him in along with Shiv Sunder Das to open the India innings was taken when the designated opener, Sanjay Bungar, pulled a hamstring muscle while fielding. And Deep grabbed the opportunity with both hands.
Not unwilling to get right behind the ball, Deep has the right temperament to open. And opening is a task that Deep is acquainted with. He started his Ranji Trophy career with Bengal as opener. It is only in the last couple of seasons that he has been batting at No 6.
With this century Deep has joined the select group of Indian wicketkeepers who have scored centuries while opening for the country. The list includes Buddi Kundaran, Farooq Engineer and Nayan Mongia, who scored 152 against Australia at the Ferozeshah Kotla in Delhi in October, 1996.
India’s progress, however, at the PCA Stadium, especially in the first two sessions of play today, was extremely slow and at times the batsmen got bogged down for no apparent reason. The England bowling was mediocre, and at times even pedestrian, but still the batsmen were not willing to go for their strokes. And to make things difficult for the Indians England skipper Nasser Hussain packed his off-side with eight players and then asked his bowlers to bowl way outside the off stump thereby preventing the Indians from scoring. But then the initiative should have been seized by the hosts because after all it is they who have to prove a point after the disaster in South Africa.
England must be happy that they were able to restrict India to 262 for three, just 24 runs ahead, when stumps were drawn for the day. It was only in the third session of play that runs came much more freely, when Sachin Tendulkar joined Rahul Dravid after the dismissal of Deep, out for an exact 100 (338 minutes, 254 balls, 15 fours). While it is understandable that Deep, playing in his first Test in the country and the third of his life, was not willing to chance his arm after having sensed that this was one attack from which he could get his maiden Test century the onus was on Rahul Dravid to grab the advantage for India.
But for no apparent reason Dravid too went into a shell giving the England bowlers a feeling that they were more competent than they actually were. With a Test average of about 50 and being the senior partner Rahul should have grabbed the advantage as India crawled, specially in the second session of play when only 71 runs came in 29 overs. The crawl came as a big disappointment to the fair crowd which had gathered at the stadium today. It was only in the last hour of play when Sachin and Rahul were together that India got some quick runs — 112 runs being added in the third session of play.
The fact that the England bowlers were not menacing was proved by night watchman Anil Kumble who this morning hung around for 103 minutes before he was out after scoring 37 (86 balls six fours). The long stay of Anil Kumble gave enough indication that the England bowlers were pedestrian.
With skipper Saurav Ganguly and V.V. S. Laxman yet to come and Sachin Tendulkar (31 not out in 76 minutes, 53 balls five fours) and Rahul Dravid (78 not out in 266 minutes, 193 balls and nine fours) at the crease England have a tough task on hand when the game resumes tomorrow. There might be something in the PCA Stadium strip even on the third day’s play but England do not have the kind of bolwers needed to grab the advantage.
Israel pounds West Bank, Gaza
Jerusalem, December 4, 2001
Declaring the Palestinian Authority as a “terrorist supporting entity”, Israel today launched second wave of strikes in as many days with its helicopter gunships pounding Palestinian targets in West Bank and Gaza, including Yasser Arafat’s headquarters, in Ramallah but he escaped unhurt.
At least two persons were killed and some 120 injured, 60 of them students, in the strikes on eight Palestinian security buildings.
The Israeli army in a statement said warplanes and combat helicopters fired missiles at the headquarters of Arafat’s Force-17 Residential Guards in the Gaza Strip and its training camps in Gaza City.
The strikes came hours after the Israeli Cabinet called Mr Arafat’s Palestinian Authority a “terrorist supporting entity” that must be dealt with.
Reacting angrily to the attacks, Mr Arafat accused Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of trying to sabotage his efforts to deal with terrorism by launching the air strikes on Palestinian targets.
The Israeli Cabinet meeting which lasted for six hours this morning branded the Palestinian Authority as a “terrorist-supporting entity”. However, the Cabinet decision has caused fissures in Ariel Sharon’s coalition government. Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres is reportedly considering whether his Labour’s Party should continue in the government. Mr Peres criticised the Cabinet decision saying it had in effect decided to destroy the Palestinian Authority. AFP, PTI
Declaring the Palestinian Authority as a “terrorist supporting entity”, Israel today launched second wave of strikes in as many days with its helicopter gunships pounding Palestinian targets in West Bank and Gaza, including Yasser Arafat’s headquarters, in Ramallah but he escaped unhurt.
At least two persons were killed and some 120 injured, 60 of them students, in the strikes on eight Palestinian security buildings.
The Israeli army in a statement said warplanes and combat helicopters fired missiles at the headquarters of Arafat’s Force-17 Residential Guards in the Gaza Strip and its training camps in Gaza City.
The strikes came hours after the Israeli Cabinet called Mr Arafat’s Palestinian Authority a “terrorist supporting entity” that must be dealt with.
Reacting angrily to the attacks, Mr Arafat accused Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of trying to sabotage his efforts to deal with terrorism by launching the air strikes on Palestinian targets.
The Israeli Cabinet meeting which lasted for six hours this morning branded the Palestinian Authority as a “terrorist-supporting entity”. However, the Cabinet decision has caused fissures in Ariel Sharon’s coalition government. Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres is reportedly considering whether his Labour’s Party should continue in the government. Mr Peres criticised the Cabinet decision saying it had in effect decided to destroy the Palestinian Authority. AFP, PTI
High Court acquits Jaya
Poised to return as Chief Minister
Chennai, December 4, 2001
The AIADMK chief, Ms J. Jayalalithaa, was all set to stage a spectacular comeback as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, following a Madras High Court verdict in her favour today in her appeals against convictions on charges of corruption by a Special Court in the Tansi deal and Pleasant Stay hotel cases last year.
Justice N. Dinakar delivered the much awaited decision this morning, allowing all the appeals of Ms Jayalalithaa and several other co-accused, including her close associate, Ms Sasikala.
An obviously delighted Ms Jayalalithaa would not indicate if she would stake her claim immediately to return as Chief Minister or wait till she won a by-election to the State Assembly. “I will take the right decision at the appropriate time, rather, an appropriate decision at the right time,” she said, adding there was no legal hurdle to her becoming the Chief Minister. The AIADMK leader said she would contest when elections were held.
Ms Jayalalithaa said she had all along maintained that false cases had been foisted on her (by the Karunanidhi government) and the High Court verdict had vindicated her stand.
AIADMK workers greeted the acquittal of their leader with the burst of crackers and distribution of sweets.
For the DMK chief, Mr Karunanidhi, Ms Jayalalithaa’s acquittal was a bitter pill indeed, but he put on a brave face by saying that “we do respect the High Court judgement”. He, however, added that “it will take a long time to get justice.” He did not elaborate. Mr Karunanidhi said it would be for DMK legal experts to consider if an appeal to the Supreme Court should be filed.
Ms Jayalalithaa’s foe-turned-friend-turned foe, Dr Subramanian Swamy, who was the original complainant in the Tansi Deal cases, has already announced that he will file an appeal in the Supreme Court against the acquittal. But Rajya Sabha member and editor of the Tamil magazine “Tughlak” Cho Ramaswamy doubted if Dr Swamy was entitled to file an appeal. T
he Chief Minister, Mr O. Paneerselvam, whom Ms Jayalalithaa had chosen to head the state government when she resigned on September 11 following a Supreme Court decision setting aside her appointment in May this year by the then Governor Fathima Beevi, told reporters that justice had ultimately triumphed and the people’s verdict had been vindicated. He was sure “Amma” would return as Chief Minister. Mr Paneerselvam had never been comfortable in his seat as Chief Minister, and he could not be blamed since it was obvious to everyone that Ms Jayalalithaa was the backseat driver with a remote control over the affairs of the state.
Political observers were speculating if Ms Jayalalithaa would wait until she contests and wins the Andipatti Assembly seat the two Tansi deal cases and to one year imprisonment in the Pleasant Stay hotel. The Special Judge, Mr P. Anbazhagan, had found her and her co-accused guilty of criminal conspiracy to commit irregularities in the purchase of land and buildings of state-owned Tansi by Jaya Publications and Sasi Enterprises in which both Ms Jayalalithaa and Ms Sasikala were partners. Ms Jayalalithaa was disqualified from contesting the state Assembly elections in May under the Representation of the Peoples Act.
Chennai, December 4, 2001
The AIADMK chief, Ms J. Jayalalithaa, was all set to stage a spectacular comeback as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, following a Madras High Court verdict in her favour today in her appeals against convictions on charges of corruption by a Special Court in the Tansi deal and Pleasant Stay hotel cases last year.
Justice N. Dinakar delivered the much awaited decision this morning, allowing all the appeals of Ms Jayalalithaa and several other co-accused, including her close associate, Ms Sasikala.
An obviously delighted Ms Jayalalithaa would not indicate if she would stake her claim immediately to return as Chief Minister or wait till she won a by-election to the State Assembly. “I will take the right decision at the appropriate time, rather, an appropriate decision at the right time,” she said, adding there was no legal hurdle to her becoming the Chief Minister. The AIADMK leader said she would contest when elections were held.
Ms Jayalalithaa said she had all along maintained that false cases had been foisted on her (by the Karunanidhi government) and the High Court verdict had vindicated her stand.
AIADMK workers greeted the acquittal of their leader with the burst of crackers and distribution of sweets.
For the DMK chief, Mr Karunanidhi, Ms Jayalalithaa’s acquittal was a bitter pill indeed, but he put on a brave face by saying that “we do respect the High Court judgement”. He, however, added that “it will take a long time to get justice.” He did not elaborate. Mr Karunanidhi said it would be for DMK legal experts to consider if an appeal to the Supreme Court should be filed.
Ms Jayalalithaa’s foe-turned-friend-turned foe, Dr Subramanian Swamy, who was the original complainant in the Tansi Deal cases, has already announced that he will file an appeal in the Supreme Court against the acquittal. But Rajya Sabha member and editor of the Tamil magazine “Tughlak” Cho Ramaswamy doubted if Dr Swamy was entitled to file an appeal. T
he Chief Minister, Mr O. Paneerselvam, whom Ms Jayalalithaa had chosen to head the state government when she resigned on September 11 following a Supreme Court decision setting aside her appointment in May this year by the then Governor Fathima Beevi, told reporters that justice had ultimately triumphed and the people’s verdict had been vindicated. He was sure “Amma” would return as Chief Minister. Mr Paneerselvam had never been comfortable in his seat as Chief Minister, and he could not be blamed since it was obvious to everyone that Ms Jayalalithaa was the backseat driver with a remote control over the affairs of the state.
Political observers were speculating if Ms Jayalalithaa would wait until she contests and wins the Andipatti Assembly seat the two Tansi deal cases and to one year imprisonment in the Pleasant Stay hotel. The Special Judge, Mr P. Anbazhagan, had found her and her co-accused guilty of criminal conspiracy to commit irregularities in the purchase of land and buildings of state-owned Tansi by Jaya Publications and Sasi Enterprises in which both Ms Jayalalithaa and Ms Sasikala were partners. Ms Jayalalithaa was disqualified from contesting the state Assembly elections in May under the Representation of the Peoples Act.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Institution of government audit
Enforcing accountability can curb corruption
4, Dec-2001.
THE Geneva-based Transparency International rates India at 72 out of 91 countries in its Corruption Perception Index 2001 and that makes it the 20th most corrupt nation today. While there may be quarrels about the methodology, approach and consequential “perception” of Transparency International, the over-all picture of widespread corruption in the nation’s body politic with its assiduously corrosive effect is neither disputed nor diminished thereby.
A variety of institutions and instrumentalities are in place to combat the scourge of corruption with the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) at the apex level. A number of non-governmental organisations have also pitched in. A recent initiative is the establishment of the Council for Clean India, a loose umbrella-type organisation which, for the present, is a deliberative mechanism for interaction among government institutions and non-government organisations on corruption-related issues. The Central Vigilance Commissioner is quite clear that corruption is too serious a matter to be left to the CVC alone.
An ally in the battle against corruption whose potential has not been fully comprehended and exploited is the institution of government audit. While corruption is quintessentially, to borrow a World Bank definition, the use of public office for private gain, the statutory definition of corruption as per the Prevention of Corruption Act encompasses acts of public servants taking gratification other than legal remuneration in respect of an official act, or obtaining valuable things without consideration from a person concerned with processing or the business transacted by such a public servant, or criminal misconduct on the part of a public servant. The acquisition and ownership of assets disproportionate to the known and legitimate sources of income of a public servant also come within the ambit of corruption.
Statutory definition apart, acts of corruption can be broadly classified as (a) doing what is right but only after securing a consideration; (b) doing something wrong in lieu of a consideration; (c) not doing what is right and lawful for a consideration; and (d) misuse of public assets, funds and facilities for private purposes. Of these, (b), (c) and (d) may directly impact government revenues and expenditure, but the effect of (a) on public funds cannot be denied since there are no free lunches anywhere. There may be other categories of corruption like favouritism and nepotism based on considerations of caste, community, etc, but these are outside the scope of the present article, which confines itself to acts of corruption that have more or less direct impact on government revenues and expenditure.
The Comptroller and Auditor-General of India (CAG) is a high, independent constitutional authority responsible for the audit of the accounts of the Central and state governments as well as government companies, autonomous organisations and aided bodies as prescribed by law made by Parliament. A perceived handicap of the CAG’s audit of its absolute, total and exclusive reliance on documentary evidence is also the source of its immense strength. What is presented by audit is based on the written records of the government departments which thereby ensures its authenticity, integrity and credibility. Each statement in the CAG’s Audit Report is expected to be based on and backed by evidence collected from departmental records, and each comment and conclusion flows from the evidence so sifted and marshalled. The CAG’s internal procedures of indepth checking, examining and scrutiny of the audit comments at several levels of hierarchy provide an in-built quality control mechanism.
Also, before an adverse and critical comment is included in the Audit Report, it is invariably sent to the departmental officers at the highest level in a draft form for confirmation of facts and figures as well as their observations and say in the matter. An audit comment may be modified or even abandoned altogether in the light of the response of the departmental officers. Thus what gets finally included in the CAG’s Audit Report is expected to be based on confirmed and proven facts and figures, backed by departmental records, the result of careful examination at several levels in the CAG’s organisation and after fullest opportunity has been given for the views of the department.
The CAG’s audit brings to light inter alia cases of irregular, excessive, wasteful, nugatory and infructuous expenditure and payments as well as cases of under-assessment or incorrect assessment of taxes and their non-collection. Such cases show that (a) something wrong has been done, or (b) what was right and prescribed has not been done, or (c) there has been misutilisation/misappropriation of public funds, assets and facilities. It is not, however, the province of audit to verify whether an act of malfeasance was committed with a motive and consideration which is sine qua non for attracting the provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
A minister in the British Cabinet stepped down for showing interest in the issue of a citizenship certificate to a private citizen. This was on grounds of propriety as against the legality of corruption, for which there may or may not have been any proof. In the same manner, an essential step in rooting out corruption should be condign punishment for acts of financial malfeasance: it is not necessary to wait for the establishment of motive or consideration which may take years. For this, ample source material is available in the CAG’s Audit Reports, which for reasons already stated may not require any substantial supplementary evidence. Unfortunately, the ineffectiveness of the currently available institutions of follow-up action for the enforcement of accountability has virtually rendered the watchdog CAG’S Audit Reports bark, which may momentarily receive media attention and then get forgotten while the colossal waste of public funds and massive haemorrhage of government revenue continue unabated.
The need of the hour is out-of-box thinking for the establishment of a new and effective apparatus for the enforcement of accountability. Care must, however, be taken to avoid the creation of an atmosphere of witch-hunting and bona fide decision making must not be held hostage to the fear of accountability. Enforcement of accountability should be adequately sensitive to the constraints of executive functioning, and it should rule out even the remotest possibility of action on judgements based on hind-sight wisdom and one-sided mechanical application of regulations. Above all, it should be the outcome of a judicial mind, a balanced approach and consistent with the principles of natural justice.
For this purpose, independent, multi-member accountability tribunals need to be established to institute follow-up action on Audit Reports. Such a tribunal should preferably be a triumvirate comprising of mature and experienced persons drawn one each from public administration, audit and the judiciary, the last being the chairperson. There should be transparency in the selection and appointment of members, based on well-defined norms and qualifications. Broadly, they would be persons of proven probity and competence with wide exposure to public affairs. The terms and conditions of their service should be sufficiently attractive, commensurate with the level of responsibility and expected performance, which enable them to discharge their functions without fear or favour. These should combine the security of a non-renewable tenure with stringent constraints on their eligibility for appointment to any other public office.
The tribunals will have full powers to call for departmental records, summon officials and determine the extent of their involvement in and responsibility for acts of financial malfeasance and award punishment. An appeal against the order of the tribunal shall lie only with the Supreme Court. Enforcement of accountability will not merely ensure better utilisation of scarce national resources and mobilisation of funds but also substantially reduce the tendency towards corruption.
In his memorable address on November 26, 1949, to the Constituent Assembly just prior to the formal adoption and signing of the Constitution, the President, Dr Rajendra Prasad, made several observations whose prescience has stood the test of time. An observation, which is generally not recalled, related to expenditure. “The cost too”, said Dr Prasad “which the Assembly had to incur during its three years’ existence is not too high... I understand that the expenses upto 22nd November (1949) come to Rs 63,96,729.” The almost apologetic reference to expenditure computed down to the last rupee and upto the last working day on this historic occasion betokened the sense of accountability for tax payers’ money at the highest level. Restoration of that sense of accountability with condign punitive action will go a long way in curbing corruption. It will also put an end to carrying out wrong orders ‘from above”, or to presenting such order “from above’ as an alibi for financial malfeasance. The pressure on government audit to enhance its performance will be a valuable spin-off.
By Dharam Vir
The writer is a former Deputy Comptroller and Auditor-General of India.
4, Dec-2001.
THE Geneva-based Transparency International rates India at 72 out of 91 countries in its Corruption Perception Index 2001 and that makes it the 20th most corrupt nation today. While there may be quarrels about the methodology, approach and consequential “perception” of Transparency International, the over-all picture of widespread corruption in the nation’s body politic with its assiduously corrosive effect is neither disputed nor diminished thereby.
A variety of institutions and instrumentalities are in place to combat the scourge of corruption with the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) at the apex level. A number of non-governmental organisations have also pitched in. A recent initiative is the establishment of the Council for Clean India, a loose umbrella-type organisation which, for the present, is a deliberative mechanism for interaction among government institutions and non-government organisations on corruption-related issues. The Central Vigilance Commissioner is quite clear that corruption is too serious a matter to be left to the CVC alone.
An ally in the battle against corruption whose potential has not been fully comprehended and exploited is the institution of government audit. While corruption is quintessentially, to borrow a World Bank definition, the use of public office for private gain, the statutory definition of corruption as per the Prevention of Corruption Act encompasses acts of public servants taking gratification other than legal remuneration in respect of an official act, or obtaining valuable things without consideration from a person concerned with processing or the business transacted by such a public servant, or criminal misconduct on the part of a public servant. The acquisition and ownership of assets disproportionate to the known and legitimate sources of income of a public servant also come within the ambit of corruption.
Statutory definition apart, acts of corruption can be broadly classified as (a) doing what is right but only after securing a consideration; (b) doing something wrong in lieu of a consideration; (c) not doing what is right and lawful for a consideration; and (d) misuse of public assets, funds and facilities for private purposes. Of these, (b), (c) and (d) may directly impact government revenues and expenditure, but the effect of (a) on public funds cannot be denied since there are no free lunches anywhere. There may be other categories of corruption like favouritism and nepotism based on considerations of caste, community, etc, but these are outside the scope of the present article, which confines itself to acts of corruption that have more or less direct impact on government revenues and expenditure.
The Comptroller and Auditor-General of India (CAG) is a high, independent constitutional authority responsible for the audit of the accounts of the Central and state governments as well as government companies, autonomous organisations and aided bodies as prescribed by law made by Parliament. A perceived handicap of the CAG’s audit of its absolute, total and exclusive reliance on documentary evidence is also the source of its immense strength. What is presented by audit is based on the written records of the government departments which thereby ensures its authenticity, integrity and credibility. Each statement in the CAG’s Audit Report is expected to be based on and backed by evidence collected from departmental records, and each comment and conclusion flows from the evidence so sifted and marshalled. The CAG’s internal procedures of indepth checking, examining and scrutiny of the audit comments at several levels of hierarchy provide an in-built quality control mechanism.
Also, before an adverse and critical comment is included in the Audit Report, it is invariably sent to the departmental officers at the highest level in a draft form for confirmation of facts and figures as well as their observations and say in the matter. An audit comment may be modified or even abandoned altogether in the light of the response of the departmental officers. Thus what gets finally included in the CAG’s Audit Report is expected to be based on confirmed and proven facts and figures, backed by departmental records, the result of careful examination at several levels in the CAG’s organisation and after fullest opportunity has been given for the views of the department.
The CAG’s audit brings to light inter alia cases of irregular, excessive, wasteful, nugatory and infructuous expenditure and payments as well as cases of under-assessment or incorrect assessment of taxes and their non-collection. Such cases show that (a) something wrong has been done, or (b) what was right and prescribed has not been done, or (c) there has been misutilisation/misappropriation of public funds, assets and facilities. It is not, however, the province of audit to verify whether an act of malfeasance was committed with a motive and consideration which is sine qua non for attracting the provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
A minister in the British Cabinet stepped down for showing interest in the issue of a citizenship certificate to a private citizen. This was on grounds of propriety as against the legality of corruption, for which there may or may not have been any proof. In the same manner, an essential step in rooting out corruption should be condign punishment for acts of financial malfeasance: it is not necessary to wait for the establishment of motive or consideration which may take years. For this, ample source material is available in the CAG’s Audit Reports, which for reasons already stated may not require any substantial supplementary evidence. Unfortunately, the ineffectiveness of the currently available institutions of follow-up action for the enforcement of accountability has virtually rendered the watchdog CAG’S Audit Reports bark, which may momentarily receive media attention and then get forgotten while the colossal waste of public funds and massive haemorrhage of government revenue continue unabated.
The need of the hour is out-of-box thinking for the establishment of a new and effective apparatus for the enforcement of accountability. Care must, however, be taken to avoid the creation of an atmosphere of witch-hunting and bona fide decision making must not be held hostage to the fear of accountability. Enforcement of accountability should be adequately sensitive to the constraints of executive functioning, and it should rule out even the remotest possibility of action on judgements based on hind-sight wisdom and one-sided mechanical application of regulations. Above all, it should be the outcome of a judicial mind, a balanced approach and consistent with the principles of natural justice.
For this purpose, independent, multi-member accountability tribunals need to be established to institute follow-up action on Audit Reports. Such a tribunal should preferably be a triumvirate comprising of mature and experienced persons drawn one each from public administration, audit and the judiciary, the last being the chairperson. There should be transparency in the selection and appointment of members, based on well-defined norms and qualifications. Broadly, they would be persons of proven probity and competence with wide exposure to public affairs. The terms and conditions of their service should be sufficiently attractive, commensurate with the level of responsibility and expected performance, which enable them to discharge their functions without fear or favour. These should combine the security of a non-renewable tenure with stringent constraints on their eligibility for appointment to any other public office.
The tribunals will have full powers to call for departmental records, summon officials and determine the extent of their involvement in and responsibility for acts of financial malfeasance and award punishment. An appeal against the order of the tribunal shall lie only with the Supreme Court. Enforcement of accountability will not merely ensure better utilisation of scarce national resources and mobilisation of funds but also substantially reduce the tendency towards corruption.
In his memorable address on November 26, 1949, to the Constituent Assembly just prior to the formal adoption and signing of the Constitution, the President, Dr Rajendra Prasad, made several observations whose prescience has stood the test of time. An observation, which is generally not recalled, related to expenditure. “The cost too”, said Dr Prasad “which the Assembly had to incur during its three years’ existence is not too high... I understand that the expenses upto 22nd November (1949) come to Rs 63,96,729.” The almost apologetic reference to expenditure computed down to the last rupee and upto the last working day on this historic occasion betokened the sense of accountability for tax payers’ money at the highest level. Restoration of that sense of accountability with condign punitive action will go a long way in curbing corruption. It will also put an end to carrying out wrong orders ‘from above”, or to presenting such order “from above’ as an alibi for financial malfeasance. The pressure on government audit to enhance its performance will be a valuable spin-off.
By Dharam Vir
The writer is a former Deputy Comptroller and Auditor-General of India.
Karthi’s winter bundobust
4, Dec-2001.
THE onset of winter once again brought alive in my memory my friend Karthikeyan, a cool guy who worked in my office. Literally cool. No pun intended since he came from South and was left to fend for himself in the “shivering North”, thanks to his posting in the country’s capital.
He met me last year in September, rubbing his palms against each other to generate some heat for himself while sauntering in the corridor. We stopped for a while to greet each other when I noticed he was feeling some cold: “What, are you coming from the Boss’s air-conditioned chamber?”, I asked him. “No, sir, it is just like that…” and he literally translated the local Hindi syntax of vaise - hee shreeman ji!
“You aren’t suffering a pre-malaria shivering and clattering of teeth, are you?” I asked a little concerned. “No, sir, no, it is like that only”, again he repeated and added: “I am feeling a little cold”. “In September?” I queried, a little surprised, “what will become of you in December-January, my dear?” I tried to cut a joke and he informed me that he had made all the arrangements for the impending winters. I asked him if had got made some new razais (quilts). “What is that?” and I informed him about the stitched cotton wrap, which is a weakness for the North Indians to slip into and curl up, at the smallest opportunity available during the winters.
When I did not see Karthikeyan in October for some days, I enquired about his well being from my colleagues, who told me that he had gone to his native place to leave his wife there for she would not stay in Delhi anymore apprehending the intensity of the imminent cold wave conditions said to be prevalent in winters.
First week of November arrived and Karthikeyan was back to his work. He met me in my office and appeared a little bulkier. I again cracked a joke: “You have put on weight being at your village, haven’t you!” “No, sir, it is the body warmers that I am wearing in layers …ha ha ha …!”, he giggled. I offered him tea and he said he would have it in a glass instead of a cup and again grinned. I saw him holding the glass wearing the gloves thereby getting a feeling of some warmth. While parting, he offered me some date palms and groundnuts saying that he was enlightened by one of his North Indian colleagues that they helped in giving inner body heat for immunity against cold.
During December I could not interact with Karthikeyan since I too, like all other government functionaries was enjoying the bliss of exhausting the casual leaves. Then suddenly on New Year Day, I noticed Karthikeyan entering my office wearing a monkey cap when I immediately called out the attendant to bring a set of hot tea, as fast as he could.
“Oh, nice to see you Karthi”, I welcomed and greeted him with a “Happy New Year” and he too reciprocated very warmly as if in reciprocation itself he would generate some heat for himself and transfer some to me holding my hand for an unusually long and irritating duration. “You look as if you are coming after experiencing a snowfall. Did you visit some hill station during the winter vacations, or…!” “No, sir,” he cut me short, “I have made a quilt for myself. Besides, in fact, I have brought back my wife and we are comfortable”, he smiled mischievously at me.
A hot guy indeed and I had been foolishly taking him to be a real cold one. I noticed Karthi unlayering most of his wrappings for “inner warmth” and he looked to be normal once again in the month of February. With the onset of March, I didn’t see my friend for about a week. And when he turned up later he informed me while mysteriously smiling at me, “Sir, although I have managed my deputation to Chennai for the coming three years but I’ll give you a good news by this year end!” What I guessed at that time was perhaps right!
K. Rajbir Deswal
THE onset of winter once again brought alive in my memory my friend Karthikeyan, a cool guy who worked in my office. Literally cool. No pun intended since he came from South and was left to fend for himself in the “shivering North”, thanks to his posting in the country’s capital.
He met me last year in September, rubbing his palms against each other to generate some heat for himself while sauntering in the corridor. We stopped for a while to greet each other when I noticed he was feeling some cold: “What, are you coming from the Boss’s air-conditioned chamber?”, I asked him. “No, sir, it is just like that…” and he literally translated the local Hindi syntax of vaise - hee shreeman ji!
“You aren’t suffering a pre-malaria shivering and clattering of teeth, are you?” I asked a little concerned. “No, sir, no, it is like that only”, again he repeated and added: “I am feeling a little cold”. “In September?” I queried, a little surprised, “what will become of you in December-January, my dear?” I tried to cut a joke and he informed me that he had made all the arrangements for the impending winters. I asked him if had got made some new razais (quilts). “What is that?” and I informed him about the stitched cotton wrap, which is a weakness for the North Indians to slip into and curl up, at the smallest opportunity available during the winters.
When I did not see Karthikeyan in October for some days, I enquired about his well being from my colleagues, who told me that he had gone to his native place to leave his wife there for she would not stay in Delhi anymore apprehending the intensity of the imminent cold wave conditions said to be prevalent in winters.
First week of November arrived and Karthikeyan was back to his work. He met me in my office and appeared a little bulkier. I again cracked a joke: “You have put on weight being at your village, haven’t you!” “No, sir, it is the body warmers that I am wearing in layers …ha ha ha …!”, he giggled. I offered him tea and he said he would have it in a glass instead of a cup and again grinned. I saw him holding the glass wearing the gloves thereby getting a feeling of some warmth. While parting, he offered me some date palms and groundnuts saying that he was enlightened by one of his North Indian colleagues that they helped in giving inner body heat for immunity against cold.
During December I could not interact with Karthikeyan since I too, like all other government functionaries was enjoying the bliss of exhausting the casual leaves. Then suddenly on New Year Day, I noticed Karthikeyan entering my office wearing a monkey cap when I immediately called out the attendant to bring a set of hot tea, as fast as he could.
“Oh, nice to see you Karthi”, I welcomed and greeted him with a “Happy New Year” and he too reciprocated very warmly as if in reciprocation itself he would generate some heat for himself and transfer some to me holding my hand for an unusually long and irritating duration. “You look as if you are coming after experiencing a snowfall. Did you visit some hill station during the winter vacations, or…!” “No, sir,” he cut me short, “I have made a quilt for myself. Besides, in fact, I have brought back my wife and we are comfortable”, he smiled mischievously at me.
A hot guy indeed and I had been foolishly taking him to be a real cold one. I noticed Karthi unlayering most of his wrappings for “inner warmth” and he looked to be normal once again in the month of February. With the onset of March, I didn’t see my friend for about a week. And when he turned up later he informed me while mysteriously smiling at me, “Sir, although I have managed my deputation to Chennai for the coming three years but I’ll give you a good news by this year end!” What I guessed at that time was perhaps right!
K. Rajbir Deswal
A bigger challenge for PM
December 4, 2001
NO one can any more ignore the strong political undercurrents taking shape in the past few weeks. Equations among different political formations are undergoing subtle changes. While on the one hand old bonds are getting sour, there are signs of thaw in the relationship between what was hitherto considered as bitter political foes. However, the good news is that even if all such developments take a concrete shape, it may not pose any immediate danger to the Vajpayee government.
This is because the present Lok Sabha is that of Atal Behari Vajpayee. And so long as there is no radical change in the equations of one or more NDA constituents in states with their local rivals, his government will continue to enjoy numerical stability. Even a total opposition consolidation in this Lok Sabha cannot unseat him unless the former is able to wean away the state bosses of some of the NDA allies. Again, luckily for Vajpayee, the opposition is not even thinking on these lines.
Up to now no Opposition leader has bothered to build bridges with any of the NDA allies. Leaders of the old Janata parivar in the opposition argue that since their former colleagues have fully aligned with the BJP, they will now be forced to depend more and more on the saffron support. The more such parties are seen as silently supporting the saffron policies, the greater will be their isolation from the mainstream support base on the ground. The more well established parties like the DMK and the TDP alone could withstand this saffron syndrome.
The really bad news for Mr Vajpayee has not been the first-ever decision for floor coordination by the Samajwadi Party and the Congress. This is a significant step. It can, if both sides make necessary accommodation, lead to a better understanding on the ground. But the real meaning of the floor coordination with the presence of such leaders as Sharad Pawar and Chandra Shekhar at the patch-up meet have been the virtual acceptance of the Congress supremacy by all others. True, the Congress has neither made it a condition nor others formally conceded it. Yet every one seems to have accepted this reality.
Three years have made all the difference. Sonia Gandhi was then unacceptable because she was yet to prove her existence within her own party. She was seen as an untested usurper under whom the Congress had even lost leadership and direction. This has been the general impression. The Congress tally in the Lok Sabha had touched the rockbottom. With a heavy baggage of old sins, the party was seen as fumbling in Parliament. It became a butt of ridicule when it found itself under compulsion to support most of the NDA decisions.
With 11 Chief Ministers under it, the Congress is no more being dismissed as a sinking ship. All its vigorous “congressisation” have not enabled the BJP to reach anywhere near the Congress in terms of vote percentage, geographical spread and popular acceptability. Its winning spree in state elections, partly due to the failures of the NDA constituents, has made those who had derided Sonia Gandhi’s “suicidal leadership”, change their mind. Practical as they are, Mulayam Singh Yadav and Sharad Pawar seem to have realised the pre-eminent position of the Congress in any future coalitional arrangement.
Mulayam Singh Yadav’s efforts to spread his wings to other states did not click. This has left him with the option of either reluctantly accept the Congress domination at the Centre or let his arch rival BJP rule the roost over him. Sharad Pawar’s predicament is worse. Having burnt his fingers, he will have to find a face-saving formula to make another “home-coming” – a term he had used in the early 80s.
Unlike Mulayam Singh Yadav, he is a junior partner even within his only stronghold. The coalitional arrangement in the state reduces the scope for the party’s expansion. Again, unlike Yadav who has the Left backing, Pawar is practically friendless in national politics. He did try hobnobbing with the BJP-Shiv Sena opposition but realised that such an action would further erode his base.
If the domination of the Congress is a virtual reality, so is Sonia Gandhi’s. Her party has made it clear that she is its leader and there would be no compromise on this. To be fair, her own conduct ever since she took her hierarchical reins has been truly credible. Over the years, she has developed a fairly sound leadership style. One can charge her with being indecisive or confused. But she has never acted whimsical and abrasive like her late husband or authoritarian and aggressive as Indira Gandhi. This may be due to Sonia Gandhi’s own limitations. Or may be, she might act differently as and when she emerges stronger.
Some of us were too hasty to conclude that she was under the influence of Fotedars and Arjun Singhs. Now we realise that she has developed an elaborate system of consultations and decision-making with maximum role for moderates and untainted. This has helped the party regain more acceptability. Coterie and caucus have disappeared. The Congress under her is the least faction-ridden – even in states where the party is in power. The Opposition and ruling party representatives find no fault with her personal conduct. All this can add to her acceptability.
Apparently, the Congress too has climbed down in the bargain. The party has buried its Pachmarhi doctrine of “go-alone”. It has been forced to revise its policies on a variety of issues, including economic reform, and sit with minor opposition groups as equals and put up with all their tantrums.
It is, however, too premature to read too much into the decision for floor coordination. The whole thing is still uncertain. Even if such a coordination does have a smooth sail. The UP elections are bound to produce more frictions. There is already resistance from the Congress ranks to the party becoming a minor partner in UP. In case it is forced, it will complete the process of its marginalisation and add UP to the list of Tamil Nadu, Bihar and West Bengal.
Mr Vajpayee has also reasons to worry about the jarring voices within the NDA. Though not directly linked, Janata splinters like the JD(U), the Paswan party and Samata minus Fernandes have been unhappy about their shabby treatment. They have been frequently airing their protests against the BJP taking away all important ministries from them. Since then there has been talk of reunification of the splinter JD groups.
There have also been feeble efforts to function as a front within the NDA to strike joint bargains. They had another meeting this week. At the moment, this may not be a big deal because senior leaders of the groups have so far discreetly remained in the background. In any case, those like George Fernandes can easily pacify the disgruntled lot. Yet such irritants may add up to the growing trend, if things go worse.
By P. Raman.
NO one can any more ignore the strong political undercurrents taking shape in the past few weeks. Equations among different political formations are undergoing subtle changes. While on the one hand old bonds are getting sour, there are signs of thaw in the relationship between what was hitherto considered as bitter political foes. However, the good news is that even if all such developments take a concrete shape, it may not pose any immediate danger to the Vajpayee government.
This is because the present Lok Sabha is that of Atal Behari Vajpayee. And so long as there is no radical change in the equations of one or more NDA constituents in states with their local rivals, his government will continue to enjoy numerical stability. Even a total opposition consolidation in this Lok Sabha cannot unseat him unless the former is able to wean away the state bosses of some of the NDA allies. Again, luckily for Vajpayee, the opposition is not even thinking on these lines.
Up to now no Opposition leader has bothered to build bridges with any of the NDA allies. Leaders of the old Janata parivar in the opposition argue that since their former colleagues have fully aligned with the BJP, they will now be forced to depend more and more on the saffron support. The more such parties are seen as silently supporting the saffron policies, the greater will be their isolation from the mainstream support base on the ground. The more well established parties like the DMK and the TDP alone could withstand this saffron syndrome.
The really bad news for Mr Vajpayee has not been the first-ever decision for floor coordination by the Samajwadi Party and the Congress. This is a significant step. It can, if both sides make necessary accommodation, lead to a better understanding on the ground. But the real meaning of the floor coordination with the presence of such leaders as Sharad Pawar and Chandra Shekhar at the patch-up meet have been the virtual acceptance of the Congress supremacy by all others. True, the Congress has neither made it a condition nor others formally conceded it. Yet every one seems to have accepted this reality.
Three years have made all the difference. Sonia Gandhi was then unacceptable because she was yet to prove her existence within her own party. She was seen as an untested usurper under whom the Congress had even lost leadership and direction. This has been the general impression. The Congress tally in the Lok Sabha had touched the rockbottom. With a heavy baggage of old sins, the party was seen as fumbling in Parliament. It became a butt of ridicule when it found itself under compulsion to support most of the NDA decisions.
With 11 Chief Ministers under it, the Congress is no more being dismissed as a sinking ship. All its vigorous “congressisation” have not enabled the BJP to reach anywhere near the Congress in terms of vote percentage, geographical spread and popular acceptability. Its winning spree in state elections, partly due to the failures of the NDA constituents, has made those who had derided Sonia Gandhi’s “suicidal leadership”, change their mind. Practical as they are, Mulayam Singh Yadav and Sharad Pawar seem to have realised the pre-eminent position of the Congress in any future coalitional arrangement.
Mulayam Singh Yadav’s efforts to spread his wings to other states did not click. This has left him with the option of either reluctantly accept the Congress domination at the Centre or let his arch rival BJP rule the roost over him. Sharad Pawar’s predicament is worse. Having burnt his fingers, he will have to find a face-saving formula to make another “home-coming” – a term he had used in the early 80s.
Unlike Mulayam Singh Yadav, he is a junior partner even within his only stronghold. The coalitional arrangement in the state reduces the scope for the party’s expansion. Again, unlike Yadav who has the Left backing, Pawar is practically friendless in national politics. He did try hobnobbing with the BJP-Shiv Sena opposition but realised that such an action would further erode his base.
If the domination of the Congress is a virtual reality, so is Sonia Gandhi’s. Her party has made it clear that she is its leader and there would be no compromise on this. To be fair, her own conduct ever since she took her hierarchical reins has been truly credible. Over the years, she has developed a fairly sound leadership style. One can charge her with being indecisive or confused. But she has never acted whimsical and abrasive like her late husband or authoritarian and aggressive as Indira Gandhi. This may be due to Sonia Gandhi’s own limitations. Or may be, she might act differently as and when she emerges stronger.
Some of us were too hasty to conclude that she was under the influence of Fotedars and Arjun Singhs. Now we realise that she has developed an elaborate system of consultations and decision-making with maximum role for moderates and untainted. This has helped the party regain more acceptability. Coterie and caucus have disappeared. The Congress under her is the least faction-ridden – even in states where the party is in power. The Opposition and ruling party representatives find no fault with her personal conduct. All this can add to her acceptability.
Apparently, the Congress too has climbed down in the bargain. The party has buried its Pachmarhi doctrine of “go-alone”. It has been forced to revise its policies on a variety of issues, including economic reform, and sit with minor opposition groups as equals and put up with all their tantrums.
It is, however, too premature to read too much into the decision for floor coordination. The whole thing is still uncertain. Even if such a coordination does have a smooth sail. The UP elections are bound to produce more frictions. There is already resistance from the Congress ranks to the party becoming a minor partner in UP. In case it is forced, it will complete the process of its marginalisation and add UP to the list of Tamil Nadu, Bihar and West Bengal.
Mr Vajpayee has also reasons to worry about the jarring voices within the NDA. Though not directly linked, Janata splinters like the JD(U), the Paswan party and Samata minus Fernandes have been unhappy about their shabby treatment. They have been frequently airing their protests against the BJP taking away all important ministries from them. Since then there has been talk of reunification of the splinter JD groups.
There have also been feeble efforts to function as a front within the NDA to strike joint bargains. They had another meeting this week. At the moment, this may not be a big deal because senior leaders of the groups have so far discreetly remained in the background. In any case, those like George Fernandes can easily pacify the disgruntled lot. Yet such irritants may add up to the growing trend, if things go worse.
By P. Raman.
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