Kaun saa Joshi?

The guards posted at the residence of union human resource and science and technology minister, Murli Manohar Joshi, seem to be an extremely pre-occupied bunch of individuals. For long have they given vague answers to those who’ve called in to or out of the minister’s residence. And it’s not just outsiders, but even members of the Joshi household who face an annoying barrage of questions whenever they call: whom do you want, where is the call going to, why is the call being made, and even, call later!

Recently, one guard was really caught napping when the minister himself called and said main Joshi bol raha hoon (this is Joshi speaking). Unable to decipher whether it was an incoming or outgoing call the guard quipped, “Kaun Joshi” (Joshi who?). As soon as the minister identified himself, the poor guard realised his blunder and promptly proceeded on indefinite leave!

CBI chases Laxmi
Senior tax collectors are a frightened lot these days. When Mr B P Verma, the then chairman of the Central Board of Excise and Customs, was arrested last year, officials felt that he was being made to pay for abusing his position. However, with the arrest of Mr Someshwar Mishra, chief commissioner (Delhi) last month, tax officials are envisaging nightmarish days ahead. But while the tax chaps are squirming, another segment is taking great comfort in the former’s collective trials and tribulations. Yes, we’re talking about the corporates: who have found, much to their delight, that this Diwali, quite a few officials turned down the usual gifts from regular clients!
It’s simple. In the current beefed up enforcement scenario, when Laxmi’s expected on the scene, can CBI sleuths be far behind? And so, rumours abound about the existence of a dreaded Central Bureau of Investigation list of corrupt officials. Although no one professes knowledge of the contents of this list, as a precautionary measure, many tax chaps found themselves refusing the annual goodies from both, known and prospective, friends!