Bhopal tragedy: GoM to discuss special compensation package

New Delhi, June 19 (ANI): The Group of Ministers (GoM) which is holding second meeting here on Saturday is expected to discuss the 982 crore rupees plan approved by the Planning Commission as part of special package to the affected people of Bhopal gas tragedy.

The special package is parts of the comprehensive demand placed before the Centre by successive state governments.

The package has to get approved by the Group of Ministers.

The GoM is expected to finalise its recommendations on rehabilitation, compensation and other related issued of the victims in today's meeting.

The meeting is expected discuss issues including the legal option in wake of recent verdict on the gas leak disaster.

The GoM will continue its deliberations on Sunday to give a final touch to the recommendations including the number of affected and the categorization of claims with regard to dead and injured.

They will finalise their recommendations on Monday.

Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh had earlier asked the GoM to submit its report within ten days.

Meanwhile, the war of words continues between the Opposition and the Government on how former Union Carbide chief, Warren Anderson was allowed to leave India in 1984.

While the Congress has described the comments of former Foreign Secretary M K Rasgotra on the issue as outrageous, the BJP has alleged that Anderson could not have been able to leave the country without the assistance of prominent officials.

M K Rasgotra has stated that Anderson's departure had the clearance of then Union Home Minister P V Narasimha Rao.

In another related development, former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Arjun Singh has said that he was not related in any way to the release of Warren Anderson.

Ranga Rao, the son of former Prime Minister P V Narsimha Rao has said it is unfair to put blame on his father. (ANI)