Himachal CM files defamation case against Mankotia

Shimla, Aug 4 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh today filed a defamation case against former tourism minister Vijai Singh Mankotia, saying that the allegations of corruption against him just before the Hamirpur by-polls greatly harmed his reputation.

Deposing before the chief judicial magistrate here after filing the case, he said by releasing a doctored audio CD at a press conference at Dharamshala, Mr Mankotia not only tarnished his image but also damaged the prospects of the Congress party in the Hamirpur Lok Sabha by-polls.

The former tourism minister had released an audio CD allegedly containing telephonic conversation between the Chief Minister and others on money transactions just a few day before the by-elections.

The case was later adjourned to September 15 next for recording the statements of other witnesses on behalf of the complainant.

UNI