Action likely against officials for lapse in PM's security

Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 2 (UNI) The Kerala Government is likely to take action against some officials for the lapse in Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's security during his visit to the state.

Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan today discussed the matter with state Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, the Director General of Police and other senior officials.

Action against some officials would be taken once ADGP Jacob Punnoose submitted his report on the matter, sources said.

Meanwhile, former Chief Minister and Democratic Indira Congress (K) leader K Karunakaran, who was denied a chance to share the dais with Dr Singh at the golden jubilee celebrations, demanded impartial inquiry into the reasons that led to diversion of the pilot vehicle.

He said though the government had asked the Additional Director General of Police to submit a report within 48 hours, it would not be neutral as he himself was responsible for the security lapse.

A pilot vehicle in the Prime Minister's motorcade had deviated from the prescribed route on the way from Thiruvanthapuram Airport to Raj Bhavan on October 31, causing confusion among security agencies.

The Kerala Home Minister yesterday personally apologised to the Prime Minister for the lapse and sought details of circumstances that led to the incident. It embarrassed the government as it occurred despite clear instructions that no chances be taken regarding security following last week's e-mail threat to the Prime Minister and President.

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