Minorities panel to discuss its official’s remark

New Delhi: Members of the National Commission for Minorities (NCM) will tomorrow discuss the reported statement by its official, made in the presence of Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, that the “situation in the country (with regard to minorities) is such that it is not allowing him to sleep peacefully”.

“The Commission members will meet tomorrow. We will discuss the issue,” NCM member Praveen Davar said.

According to a source, the meeting is likely to be a “mere formality” before the panel seeks an explanation from NCM additional secretary Ajoy Kumar for having made the remark.

“Those who were present for the conference feel that there is a difference between what the official had actually said and what has appeared in the media. But still, the Commission will have to follow the process and ask for his explanation,” the source added.

Meanwhile, Naqvi said he has asked Kumar to only meet him and has not sought any explanation from the official as yet.

“I have not asked for any explanation from him, I just wanted to know from him why he said so. I may meet him in two or three days,” the Minister said.

According to media reports, while delivering vote of thanks to Naqvi at the annual conference of State Minorities Commissions here yesterday, Kumar had reportedly said the “situation in the country (of minorities) is not allowing him to sleep peacefully”.

He also reportedly urged the government to “allow people live in peace”.

PTI