Date:30/04/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/04/30/stories/2007043005351200.htm

National

``Sibal's statement unfortunate''

J. Venkatesan

New Delhi: The former Chief Justice of India Y.K. Sabharwal described as absurd and unfortunate the statement of the Union Minister Kapil Sibal about allotment of plots by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mulayam Singh to Sheeba Sabharwal, a member of his family.

Talking to The Hindu , Justice Sabharwal said, "It is unfortunate that people could stoop to such levels. This is absolute madness, absurd and meaningless."

He said, "Seven members of my family had applied for allotment and there was a draw of lots in which one family member was successful. It is absurd to assume that there was favouritism because one family member was successful in the draw of lots. If this is to be accepted, then it will mean that no family member of any judge in the country should apply for allotment of plots where draw is to take place."

He said, "By making such reckless allegations, Mr. Sibal may have something to gain political scores. But he cannot malign the office of the CJI by making such wild and reckless allegations. He must understand the harm he is doing to this country by tarnishing the image of the office of the CJI."