The Hindu : Front Page : PM’s counsel to West Bengal

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Wednesday, Nov 21, 2007
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PM’s counsel to West Bengal

Harish Khare

ON BOARD THE PRIME MINISTER’S SPECIAL AIRCRAFT: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday put up quite a performance for the media delegation accompanying him to Singapore. As soon as the breakfast trays were cleared, he walked into the reporters’ section of the aircraft.

His handlers had already told journalists that the Prime Minister was keen on an interaction.

Dr. Singh had done his home work, he anticipated every question, and was even ready with a carefully worded statement on the most controversial topic back home: Nandigram.

Asked whether Parliament should discuss the recent events in Nandigram, the Prime Minister said, “It was a matter that should be discussed in Parliament” and the presiding officers were “looking at how such a discussion can be facilitated [and] under what rule.” Then he added: “I would not like to comment further while I am out of the country.”

This reply invited a pointed supplementary what he thought about “Nandigram.” Dr. Singh took out a piece of paper from the right pocket of his Nehru jacket, and half-jokingly said: “I will read out a statement.” The statement read:

“Events in Nandigram have taken a most unfortunate turn. I condole the loss of lives and regret the destruction of property. I sincerely hope the State government will be able to take necessary steps to restore the confidence of the people through the effective deployment of security forces.

“It is the duty of the State government to ensure that all sections of the population regardless of their political views and affiliations are entitled to and do receive protection of the law enforcement agencies.”

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