CM gives clean chit to ministers

Mumbai, Apr 7 (UNI) Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh today gave a clean chit to the two ministers whose names have figured in the taped conversation between criminals.

''The action could be taken if there is a direct dialogue between underworld dons and politicians''. How the action could be taken on mere mention of names in the conversation of two criminals'', Mr Deshmukh observed while talking to reporters here.

He also sarcastically advised the electronic media not to be too serious on such taped conversations.

Mr Deshmukh's comment are significant as the names of Minister of State for Home Siddharam Mhetre and Forest Minister Baban Pachpute have figured in the conversation between criminal D K Rao with underworld don Chhota Rajan.

Referring to the controversy over the prposed proosed new liquor policy, Mr Deshmukh said several people have made statements without proper information on the issue.

He also said the government would also talk with veteran social activist Anna Hazare who had also expressed reservations on this policy.

He also said there was no confusion over the liquor policy and neither was there any difference of opinion among the ministers.

Mr Deshmukh also clarified that there was no ban on anybody coming to Mumbai. But, all the slums after 2000 would be removed.

Earlier, speaking at a function after inaugurating 'Arogya Bhavan', Mr Deshmukh said the imbalance in sex ratio and the diseases like chicken gunia, were matter of concern for the government.

He also said private hospitals would be asked to maintain all the records of the patients on the lines of government hospitals.

UNI JM KD PA RN1922