The Honest Season by Kota Neelima

Author:Kota Neelima
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9788184007664
Publisher: Random House Publishers India Pvt. Ltd.
Published: 2015-12-03T16:00:00+00:00

The PCB headquarters at Connaught Place was built of red brick and metal on some futuristic lines. Mira and Salat were escorted to a small conference room so clean it appeared guilty of hiding microphones and cameras. Even the green plant in the corner appeared dubious, and Salat walked up to examine it closely.

The fourth Parliament tape managed to provide evidence of something that had been speculated for a long time—that the PCB investigations were politically motivated and served whichever political party was in power. Soon after that morning’s editorial meeting, Bhaskar had directed them to meet PCB Officer Fernandes to dispel any notion of partisanship on the part of the newspaper and establish its innocence, if possible. Munshi had also reached an agreement with the PCB on how to deal with the fallout from the tape and wanted Mira and Salat to give the officer an opportunity to accept a face-saver.

Fernandes didn’t look like he had any use for face-savers. He walked in for the meeting exactly on time, and after introducing himself, wished them curtly. He was neatly dressed, and from his close-cropped hair to the shining shoes, he was sharp and angry.

Salat briefly explained the reason behind the meeting and Munshi’s instructions. He spoke about the newspaper’s process of investigated the tapes and their verification. Even though it appeared like he already knew everything Salat told him, Fernandes politely thanked him at the end.

Then he glanced at Mira.

‘As you might be aware, ma’am,’ he said formally, ‘I could be under suspension from the PCB pending inquiry following the recent Parliament tape. Even if I am found innocent at the end of the inquiry, it will remain part of my record to be mentioned every time I am considered for any position or promotion.’

Mira remained silent and hastened to perceive his thoughts. ‘There is one thing, however, that could prevent the inquiry, and that is, if I can prove the newspaper had concocted the tapes with the help of Sikander Bansi,’ he said steadily. ‘All it would take is a confession from you.’

Mira wasn’t surprised.

‘I know,’ Fernandes added kindly, ‘you must be thinking why would you ever make such a confession as it would discredit the newspaper and destroy your career.’

She wasn’t thinking that. He was. Mira waited.

‘You must be aware,’ his voice was toneless, ‘that you are under surveillance of the government, political parties and also private agencies. A lot of people are interested to know the whereabouts of Sikander Bansi. Every moment of your day is being recorded and reported to higher authorities. I have studied your life, and I admire you, Ms Mouli.’ He paused, his face devoid of expression. ‘You are from a humble background, but have never done anything wrong to reach where you are today. You have only an uncle for a relative and have lived alone all your life. You take pride in your independence and never used the funds regularly sent by your uncle. Despite the obvious lack of guidance and affection, you haven’t made many mistakes.

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