Question : MISSING OF DD FILES ON ARMY SERIAL

(a) whether attention of the Government has been drawn to the news-item captioned `DD files on Indian Army serial go missing` appearing in the Hindustan Times dated the May 6, 2002;

(b) if so, the details and facts of the matter reported therein;

(c) whether there have been allegations of several irregularities;

(d) if so, the details thereof;

(e) whether any inquiry has been initiated so as to ascertain the circumstances under which the concerned file got misplaced; and

(f) if so, the details thereof and action taken against the officials responsible for such serious lapse?

THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING (SMT. SUSHMA SWARAJ)


(a): Yes, Sir.

(b): Prasar Bharati has informed that their file relating to the programme entitled `Jazba` produced by M/s Creators Group, New Delhi, based on Indian Army is not traceable.

(c) & (d): A complaint was received from the Central Vigilance Commission against Sh. Upender Sood of M/s Creators Group and Doordarshan Officials which, inter- alia, alleges irregularities in, conversion of the category of the programme `Jazba` from sponsored to commissioned, increase in the rate of each episode and release of advance to the producer by Doordarshan.

(e)&(f): Prasar Bharati has informed that an inquiry into the matter has been initiated. Necessary action as per Rules will be taken against the officials found responsible for lapse, if any, after completion of the inquiry.