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Journalism of Courage
It was a classic confrontation between Oxbridge sophistication and rustic effrontery. Panchyati Raj Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar, suave and soft-spoken, had reasons to be upset with Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav at the Cabinet meeting last Thursday to discuss the multi-sectoral development programme for minorities. Aiyar raised his hand to speak about a greater role for panchayats in the implementation of the programme. Lalu, however, brusquely cut him short, 8220;If there is something good happening, let it be.8221; Aiyar withdrew into a shell. According to a Cabinet minister, Lalu had also snubbed Aiyar at another meeting a few months ago, telling the Panchayati Raj minister, 8220;Now you will seek a role for panchayats even in running the Railways.8221;
