Mohali SSP denies Ness Wadia's allegations

Chandigarh, May 26 (UNI) Categorically denying Kings XI Punjab team owner Ness Wadia's allegations that the Mohali Police officials were selling tickets in black on May 23, Mohali SSP R S Khatra has shot back saying had Mr Wadia informed him about the negligence on the part of any police official, ''I would have initiated action against the delinquent staff''.

However, he said, ''Mr Ness Wadia launched verbal assault on me using derogatory language against the administration and police in particular causing annoyance to me and to the public.'' Countering Wadia's another allegation that on May 3, the police officials had taken away the T-shirts and liquor lying in the long room, Mr Khatra said Mr Wadia had deputed about 300 private security personnel in the PCA Stadium.

''If, despite the presence of private security, some police officials had committed such an act, he should have brought this to my notice.'' Mr Khatra further alleged that Mr Wadia was also ''fond of smoking.'' The Police did not allow any body to smoke in the stadium, including long room. ''Having a grudge in his mind Mr Wadia alleged false and frivolous allegations against the Police which are devoid of any merit.'' Narrating the incident, Mr Khatra said, ''on May 23, at 2000 hours, I entered the stadium to supervise the security arrangements.

Mr Wadia was present at the reception counter. He wanted to have a talk with me, regarding the match on May 23 and an earlier match (May 3).'' Mr Wadia alleged that the Mohali Police was selling IPL tickets in black and some people were allowed entry in to the stadium without tickets.

''However, I contradict the allegations that the IPL persons were selling the tickets during the ongoing match. As the tickets were available at the counter, how is it possible that people were purchasing the tickets in black,'' explained Mr Khatra.

Regarding the accusation of allowing people to enter without tickets, the Mohali SSP said, ''the IPL had deployed private security at the entrance gates. They should not allow any illegal entry. The police force was deployed to maintain law and order, to keep strict vigil, to check any untoward incident and facilitate smooth conduct of the match.'' ''Had Mr Wadia informed me regarding the negligence on the part of any police official, I would have taken action against the delinquent staff. However, Mr Wadia launched verbal assault on me using derogatory language.'' Meanwhile, PCA president I S Bindra reached the spot and with his intervention, the matter was tried to mitigate.

Mr Khatra observed that the IPL matches were not played with the spirit to boost sports.

''However, it is established that the people connected with this tournament, the players, the owners and the Board of Control for Cricket in India have engaged to have pecuniary gains,'' said the Mohali SSP.

Mr Khatra has requested the District Magistrate to take necessary action.

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