Santhanam favours probe into Pokhran-II

New Delhi, Sep 18 (PTI) A former Defence Research and
Development Organisation (DRDO) scientist, who had questioned
the efficacy of the thermonuclear device during the Pokhran-II
tests, has favoured an inquiry to determine the success of the
1998 experiments, saying creation of nuclear power could not
be based on myths.

"I think this is standard procedure in science and if
there are claims then an impartial group of scientists is
normally formed to look into the relevant facts," K Santhanam,
who triggered a controversy when he claimed that the tests
have not yielded desired results, said.

Asked whether such a probe will affect the country's
image as a nuclear power, he said one should not be carried
away by "images or imagery" and that the image must be rooted
in solid facts and cleared by competent group of scientists.

"So the creation of a myth must be avoided," he said.

On whether he would prefer to made public the findings
of such a committee, he said the panel should be allowed to
form its own rules and if there is classified information made
available to them, then the report "must remain" confidential.

"They can submit a classified report to the government
and an unclassified version for the press," Santhanam said.

His comments came a day after three top nuclear
scientists -- M R Srinivasan, P K Iyengar and A N Prasad --
demanded a probe into the claims made by Santhanam, DRDO's
Project Director for Pokhran-II tests. MORE PTI