‘Give ISRO scientists opportunity to place their stand’

The Law Ministry has told the Department of Space to allow four ISRO scientists “post decisional opportunity” to place their stand on its move debarring them from occupying any Government position in future in the aftermath of the Antrix-Devas S Band deal.

In an opinion to the Department of Space, the Law Ministry has also said no further probe into the deal is required and that there was no need for a charge-sheet at this stage.

It said once the scientists are given a chance to place their stand, their lament that they were not treated fairly would be addressed.

The Department of Space had made a reference to the Law Ministry seeking its opinion on the controversial issue.

Referring to the Space Department’s order which barred former ISRO chief Mr G. Madhavan Nair, Mr A Bhaskarnarayana, Mr K. R. Sridharamurthi and Mr K. N. Shankara from any re-employment, or any other important Government role, the Ministry said the exact nature of charges should have been communicated to the scientists.

But at the same time, it said since the reports of the two committees which went into the deal are now in the public domain, the four were now aware of the charges against them.

The Ministry’s opinion, based on inputs provided by Attorney General, Mr G. E. Vahanvati, said though the action against the scientists was not “punitive” in nature, the Government should follow the principle of natural justice which states that justice is not only done but is also seen to be done.

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