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Tehelka tells Tehelka panel: keep us out

Tehelka tells Tehelka panel: keep us out

Author: Manoj Mitta
Publication: The Indian Express
Date: July 3, 2001

Files application saying don't make our conduct the  subject of your inquiry

Indraprasth, July 2 - In a surprising twist to the Tehelka controversy, the portal has sought an ''assurance'' from the Justice Venkataswami Commission that its own conduct should not be a subject of inquiry.

In a statement filed last month before the Commission, Tehelka said it will extend all cooperation in the inquiry provided it's assured that it won't be served with a notice under Section 8-B of the Commissions of Inquiry Act.

This came to light today during a hearing of the Commission when Additional Solicitor General Kirit Raval, appearing for the Government, objected to the assurance sought by Tehelka. Venkataswami said he would decide on the plea at a later stage.

A Commission is required by law to issue the Section 8-B notice to every person whose conduct is likely to come under scrutiny or whose reputation is likely to be ''adversely affected'' by it. This notice also puts the person on guard and ensures that he/she is given a fair opportunity during the inquiry.

Tehelka's argument is that it cannot be clubbed with those who are alleged to have been involved in dubious defence deals. The terms of reference of the Commission, however, make it incumbent on Venkataswami to probe not just the defence deals but also the manner in which Tehelka came up with the allegations related to them. Tehelka's objection raises questions because the notice is as much a safeguard to the portal as it is an indication that the bona fides of its investigation will also be probed.

Since the inquiry is still at the preliminary stage, the Commission is yet to issue the Section 8-B notice to anybody. But that notice is likely to be served soon on several of the politicians, bureaucrats, Army officials and defence dealers named in the Tehelka tapes.
 


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