Tehelka: Panel for videotapes146; test

Terming the order allowing forensic examination of videotapes as a 8216;8216;setback to fair play in public life8217;8217;, Internet portal Tehelka managing editor Tarun Tejpal said it was another effort to derail the issue.

Reversing previous rulings, the Tehelka Commission today ordered detailed forensic examination of the tapes containing allegations of corruption in Defence deals saying it has 8216;8216;serious doubts8217;8217; that these 8216;8216;might be tampered with8217;8217; or not be the originals.

As many as 16 videotapes submitted by Tehelka will be sent for examination by 8216;8216;independent and impartial experts8217;8217; following a 31-page order by Justice S.N. Phukan here.

At a press conference within hours of the order, Tejpal said, 8216;8216;we are not surprised but it is a matter of disappointment that the establishment continues to derail and diffuse the import of investigation.8217;8217; He said his portal stands by its story, tapes and its public interest motives.