Security Analyst and columnist Abhijit Iyer-Mitra, who was arrested in September by the Odisha Police in Delhi for his derogatory remarks on the Konark Sun Temple, has written an ‘unconditional apology’ to the Odisha Assembly Speaker, Daily News Analysis reported.
Mitra apologised for his derogatory remarks on the Sun Temple and for undermining the dignity of the rich culture of the state.
He had earlier been summoned to appear before the House Committee headed by the Leader of Opposition, Narasingh Mishra, on Thursday. However, he skipped the appearance. He was to be enquired into the alleged breach of privilege.
Mitra, in his letter, also apologised for not deposing before the panel. The committe has asked him to appear on 23 October now. The Supreme Court, on 4 October, had dismissed his bail petition to grant relief over his remarks.
In a video uploaded on social media on Saturday, 15 September, Mitra was seen criticising the 13th century temple, in what seems to be a satirical video.
He was granted bail on a surety of Rs 1 lakh and had been ordered to join the investigation in Odisha by 28 September.
Mitra shot the video during his visit to the temple with former parliamentarian and his friend, Baijayant Panda. Panda took Mitra and journalist Aarti Tikoo Singh on a chopper ride over the Sun Temple, the Puri Jagannath Temple and the Chilika Lake, drawing criticism across the political spectrum.
(With inputs from DNA)
(At The Quint, we question everything. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member today.)