NSC Employees Association (NSCEA) President Narayan Dev Rana had called a press conference on February 15 and produced a recorded telephone conversation in which a voice recognized as Ansari’s had demanded cash. The NSC is now trying to get away with not making a probe as its member secretary, Hari Babu Chaudhary, has bluntly rebuffed the allegation and termed it mere propaganda.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports is also in no mood to initiate an investigation as there has not been any written complaint.
According to spokesperson at the ministry Bharat Nepali Pyakurel, the ministry came to know about the incident only through the media and no one has lodged a formal complaint.
He further said that they cannot make a probe because an allegation is insufficient to prove guilt.
“We haven’t received any written complaint against Ansari and he has already given his clarification,” Pyakurel told Republica.
“There are other state bodies to look after the issue. We have delegated authority to the NSC to take necessary steps,” he added.
Former sports minister Sharat Singh Bhandari told Republica that he was unaware of the scam but added that it is the responsibility of the NSC to give clarifications when any dispute related to sports arises.
However, NSC Member Secretary Chaudhary has made it clear no probe committee will be formed as he believes the recorded tape does not substantiate the involvement of NSC officials in bribery.
“I don’t think there is a need for investigations. It is not an issue at all. It is nothing, just propaganda. Who will offer that much money?” Chaudhary said mockingly.
Ansari had admitted seeking Rs 700,000 but denied that it was a bribe. He has maintained that he did not ask the amount for himself but for the NSC, after discussing the matter with the member secretary.
Chaudhary at the time had denied any knowledge about Ansari seeking money from the NSCEA, but on Friday he told Republica it was a good thing Ansari asked for money for the NSC.
“He (Ansari) is a bona fide member of the NSC. What is wrong if he asked for money on behalf of the NSC. It is a good thing because we are having a fund crunch,” said Chaudhary.
Meanwhile, Vice-president Timilsina has refuted the allegation and presented the concert organizers at a press conference to prove his point.
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