Now, Kiran Bedi flies into controversy

Allegation of Bedi using her gallantry medal to secure discount from airlines, but accepting full fare from event organisers are doing the rounds

Now, Kiran Bedi flies into controversy

Allegation of Bedi using her gallantry medal to secure discount from airlines, but accepting full fare from event organisers are doing the rounds

One after the other, Team Anna members are falling victim to myriad controversies. Latest in the list is former IPS officer Kiran Bedi. It has been alleged that Bedi used her gallantry medal to get 75 per cent discount on Air India tickets and then accepted full fare from the organisers of various events. It has also been alleged that Bedi claimed business class fare even while she was travelling economy class.

Turbulence: Kiran Bedi addressing a press conference on the
controversy at her residence in New Delhi on Thursday. Pic/Imtiyaz Khan

Un-fare tactics?
Reacting to the report, Bedi said there was no personal gain. She said the money saved was sent to NGO India Vision Foundation, run by her. "I have nothing to hide. Whatever money came from the organisers of functions went to the institution. I am not a beneficiary in this case. I get a lot of money through my lectures and royalty on books. I donate it all to NGOs," she said.

Defending herself, Bedi said the business class travel was part of the invitation from a particular event's organisers. "I decide whether I should travel business class or not. Sometimes, I choose to travel economy class. The moneyu00a0 saved goes to my NGO. I do not withdraw the money myself. The invitation is to the Foundation, the cheque is issued in its name and the withdrawal is done by the Foundation only," said the former cop.

Political ploy?
The Congress, however, is firm on its stand. Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said, "Bedi should come clean on this, as it is a very serious allegation." Later, party spokesperson Rashid Alvi said it was very unfortunate that while on one hand she was fighting against corruption, on the other, she herself was doing all this.