Date:25/09/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/09/25/stories/2008092563181300.htm

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Sorry, I was misunderstood: Oscar

Special Correspondent

New Delhi: Under fire for describing the killing of the chief executive officer of an Italy-based company at Greater Noida as a “warning” to managements and an indication of simmering discontent among workers, Minister of State for Labour and Employment (independent charge) Oscar Fernandes on Wednesday apologised for his statement.

His remarks evoked a sharp reaction from industry, which described it as “shocking,” and said that whatever the circumstances, murder could not be condoned.

Following this, External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee held a meeting and thereafter Mr. Fernandes “apologised to end the matter.” Present were Home Minister Shivraj Patil and Defence Minister A.K. Antony, besides Mr. Fernandes.

Talking to journalists, Mr. Fernandes said: “I would like to put an end to this chapter; I am sorry.” He said: “If I have no right to speak, I will never speak.”

Claiming that his remarks were “misunderstood,” the Labour Minister offered “profound apologies to everybody who feels hurt.”

Commerce Minister Kamal Nath condemned Monday’s killing of L.K. Chaudhury, CEO of Graziano, but said the incident would not be allowed to mar India’s position as an investment destination. He said the violence at the MNC was completely at variance with the Indian culture and tradition of peace.

“The legal course will be followed and all culprits will be brought to book..., ” he said.