New Delhi: Human Resources Development (HRD) Minister Murli Manohar Joshi today (Dec 11, 2003) said that M G S Narayanan was removed as Chairman of the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) due to "financial irregularities" in functioning of the Council.

"There was no basis other than financial irregularities in the functioning of the council which led to the removal of Narayanan," Joshi said at a pre-launch function on “Vigyan Rail-Exhibition on Wheels” in New Delhi.

He said the decision was taken on the basis of a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), which pointed out certain irregularities.

The minister said since the grant was given by the Centre, the Institute should follow its financial rules and keep the Ministry informed about the expenses made.

"No one can use the funds on his own will. There are certain rules to be followed. As long as I am the minister these kind of irregularities would not be tolerated in the name of autonomy."

Narayanan was also warned by the ministry to mend his ways and was given three months time for the same, Joshi said.

Asked whether the ministry would inquire into the matter further, Joshi said that was Council's internal matter and let them solve it on their own.

"I have always favoured autonomy of the institutions but people need to understand that it is limited to the academic issues only," he said.

PTI