(a): whether attention of the Government has been drawn to the news item captioned `After Caribjet, A-I MD faces another probe` published in Pioneer dated March 30, 2000;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the reaction of the Government thereto?
THE MINISTER OF CIVIL AVIATION
(SHRI SHARAD YADAV)
(a): Yes, Sir.
(b) & (c): Shri S.Narayanswamy, a retired employee of Air
India had been appointed as a consultant in Air India from
October 1997, by the Managing Director, Air India on monthly
emoluments of Rs.20000/- & transport. His appointment has
been terminated on 15.04.2000. Shri Narayanswamy was one of
the Officers named in the report dated 21.12.96 of the Chief
Vigilance Officer of Air India in Atmaram Mansion (formerly
Scindia House) case for certain alleged lapses. Air India
Vigilance is looking into whether the appointment of
consultant(s) is in consonance with Air India Service
Regulations. Regarding his role in arbitration proceedings
against the termination of wetlease of aircraft from M/s
Caribjet, the CBI has already registered a Preliminary
Enquiry on 30.3.2000 which will inter-alia look into whether
adequate efforts were made by Air India officials and their
legal advisors to protect the commercial interests of Air
India in arbitration proceedings.