ISRO robust,will survive row: Ex-chief

He also did not fear any lasting implications of the government decision that followed a probe into the Antrix-Devas deal on the scientific community and technology development.

Refusing to comment on the nature of the disciplinary action against Nair,former scientific secretary in ISRO A Bhaskarnarayana,former Antrix managing director K R Sridharmurthi and former director in ISRO Satellite Centre K N Shankara,Kasturirangan said he did not have the necessary knowledge to respond with authenticity.

Kasturirangan headed ISRO from 1994-2003 and handed over charge to Nair,who served till 2009.

Thrown out like garbage

Most of the scientific community has expressed shock at government action:

Dr Anil Kakodkar,former chairman of Department of Atomic Energy: This could end up discouraging innovative ideas and partnerships in the sector.

Dr C N Rao,head of the Scientific Advisory Council to the PM: They served the country,were thrown out like garbage.

R A Mashelkar,ex-CSIR head and also a member of the PMs panel: Order extremely painful.

Prof Yashpal,academician: Move too harsh and probably arising out of ill-will.