New Delhi, December 9
Prasar Bharati CEO BS Lalli, the controversial 1971 batch IAS officer of the UP cadre, is in trouble but he is putting up a brave face.

The President has given her assent for a Supreme Court inquiry into the charges of financial irregularities against Lalli, practically setting in motion the process to remove him from the post.

Official sources said the presidential assent came on a reference made by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, as required under the Prasar Bharati Act.

Lalli promptly issued a statement, clearly suggesting that he had no intention to resign and that he was prepared for a probe. “While, on the one hand, I am sad I have to face this after nearly 40 years of unblemished service in the IAS, on the other, I derive comfort from the fact that I would be heard and that at long last, due focus would be given to facts rather than conjectures, half-truths and plain lies,” he said.

Lalli also referred to the list of charges against him, including engagement by Prasar Bharati of expensive senior advocates in a few cases, payment of higher rates by AIR to get commentary rights in some cricket series, non-convening of meetings of a committee in regard to some cricket matches and improper settling of the management of marketing of a few cricket series between the rights holder of Doordarshan and non-telecast of T-20 World Cup in 2007 on Doordarshan, implying thereby that a possible financial gain was permitted to be made by the rights holder.

Lalli alleged that a lot of intrigue and mischief had been going on within the organization, which had been abetted and encouraged by powerful elements from outside with the aim to tarnish his image.

The chairman of a member of the Prasar Bharti Board can only be removed by an order of the President on the ground of misbehaviour after the apex court holds an inquiry following a reference to it. Pending inquiry, the CEO can be placed under suspension, as per the provisions of the act.

Lalli, CEO of the public broadcaster since December 2006, has been involved in a running feud with the board.