Stalled Prasar Bharati

The battle over Prasar Bharati continues between its powerful CEO B S Lalli and Iamp;B Minister Ambika Soni,who effected key changes in the board of the autonomous body a few months ago. Lalli has continued to thwart attempts by the ministry to weaken his control. What is surprising is the manner in which the convening of even the first meeting of the Prasar Bharati board has been stalled,in spite of it having been reconstituted almost three months ago. Besides well-known journalists like Mrinal Pandey,who is the board chairperson,and Suman Dubey,the new panel includes film personalities like Shyam Benegal and Muzaffar Ali. After various reasons being cited for the inability to convene it,the first meeting of the board was finally scheduled for March 17. However,two days before it could be held,Lalli sought a postponement and a fresh date of April 7. Board members are now watching with apprehension,wondering if Lalli has another trick up his sleeve.