HC orders CVC probe into Prasar Bharati issue

New Delhi, Jul 27 (PTI) The Delhi High Court Monday
ordered a Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) inquiry into
alleged financial irregularities in Prasar Bharati Corporation
and appointed a former judge to supervise its Board meetings.

The court rejected Government plea seeking more time to
resolve the issue, saying Centre should not interfere in the
functioning of an autonomous board.

"The allegations regarding financial and administrative
irregularities etc are referred to the CVC for appropriate
investigation and report," a bench headed by Chief Justice A P
Shah said.

The court said that in view of differences between
Board Chairman Arun Bhatnagar and CEO B S Lalli, the Prasar
Bharati's Board meetings would be held under the supervision
of retired Delhi High Court judge J P Singh who will act as an
independent observer.


"Meeting of the Board be videographed," the court
directed while stating that Singh will submit a report if
there is any dispute regarding the minutes circulated by the
Chairman.

The bench also comprising Justice Manmohan directed
the Board to convene its meeting within 15 days.

"Keeping in view the statutory autonomy granted to
Prasar Bharati Corporation, we cannot accept government's
suggestion that it should be granted leave to intervene into
the matter," the court said.

The bench passed the order after the government failed
to bring reconciliation between the Chairman and the CEO who
have been at loggerheads.

The court said that day-to-day work of the Public
Broadcaster would be handled by the CEO, Member (Finance) and
Member (Personnel) of the Board. PTI AAC
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