JD(U) to move privilege against Lalu for misleading Parliament

Patna, Dec 24 (UNI) The JD(U) is contemplating moving privilege against Railway Minister Lalu Prasad in the next session of Parliament for ''misleading'' the House by making ''false'' announcements.

JD(U) spokespersons Shivanand Tiwari and its state president Rajiv Ranjan alias Lalan Singh, told newspersons here today that during the budget speech in Parliament, Mr Prasad had announced use of khadi and handloom products in Railways.

He had stated that his department had taken a policy decision to use khadi and handloom products in trains, offices and guest houses of Railways to promote weavers,'' they said adding that during his public meetings, Mr Prasad had also made similar announcements.

The M inister had said through a circular of Railway Board on June 9, 2004, all General Managers of different zones were directed to comply with the orders in the light of the policy decision, but contary to the announcement, the Railways had ordered purchase of bed rolls, different varieties of towels and pillow covers exclusively from reputed mills, Mr Tiwari said adding this had been confirmed by the reply of a Public Information Officer on December 2 to a query made under Right to Information Act. He alleged that Mr Prasad had cheated Parliament and the common people through his false announcements for which the JD(U) would move a privilege motion in Parliament.

He said Mr Singh had been entrusted with the job and the notice could be moved even before the session.

Mr Tiwari also questioned the appointments made in the Railways, especially in Group three, alleging that a particular cast had been given priority. He asked Prasad to furnish details of the appointment made during his tenure.

''Mr Prasad, on one hand strongly vouched for the Sachchar Committee report, while on the other he himself ignored the minorities and extremely backward castes while making appointments, ''Mr Tiwari alleged.

UNI RS SJC VD VC1746