Date:21/01/2003 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2003/01/21/stories/2003012104211100.htm

National

Centre apologises to Enron probe commission

Mumbai Jan. 20. The Union Government today tendered an unconditional apology to the Kurdukar Commission, which is probing the Enron-Dabhol power project fiasco, for filing an irregular affidavit opposing the panel's jurisdiction.

The apology was tendered by the senior Government counsel, R. V. Desai, on behalf of the Secretary to the Ministry of Power, R. V. Shahi.

The Commission had summoned Mr. Shahi and the Desk Officer, Jaideep Lahatakia, to appear in person and explain individually why they had not obtained the Cabinet's approval on the Government's stand over its jurisdiction to conduct the inquiry. Mr. Shahi and Mr. Lahatakia did not appear in court but the Joint Secretary to Ministry of Power, Anil Kumar Kutty, appeared before the Commission and filed a proper affidavit reiterating the Union Government's stand opposing its jurisdiction.

PTI