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Kathmandu,Tuesday March 21, 2000 Chaitra 08, 2056.
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Misleading report
I read with considerable interest the inaccurate
and misleading articles published in The Kathmandu Post on 12 and 16 March concerning
Captain Agan Singh Rai VC. I must say it is unfortunate that the truth concerning the help
that this brave and respected veteran has received has been distorted. I will leave my
Indian colleagues to comment on the enormous amount of assistance they have given to this
Indian Army pensioner. But, from the British Gurkhas Nepal perspective, perhaps I could
use your newspaper to set the record straight:
- First, Captain Agan Singh Rai VC has attended VC
Holders’ Reunions in London in 1995, 1997 and 1999. He was accompanied by family
members of his choice who were accommodated at no cost in London. In addition to any
pension received from the Indian Army, he receives a pension from the British Ministry of
Defence, of some NCRs 12,000 each month.
- Second, I can confirm, quite unequivocally, that
HQ British Gurkhas Nepal has not received either a letter (or even a personal visit) from
a member of Captain Agan Singh Rai’s family.
- Third, we have spoken to the VC Association in
London. Their representative actually telephoned Captain Rai’s family in December as
there was some concern over his state of health. The VC Association has undertaken to
assist with any medical costs and currently is awaiting a request from the family.
- Fourth, on 2 March, Captain Agan Singh Rai
visited the Gurkha Welfare Scheme’s Area Welfare Centre in Bagmati where he was given
a free medical examination. He was offered further assistance but has not returned there.
Subsequent to that date, the family have been contacted by the VC Association and British
Gurkhas Nepal staff where further assistance was offered.
I should make it quite clear that I abhor the
sensationalist and inaccurate articles about a highly respected, brave and honourable man
in your newspaper. I must say that your reporter was briefed at length on the above points
but inexplicably ignored them.
Could I suggest that your reporters be advised to
check facts before setting pen to paper.
Mark Dowdle
British Gurkhas Nepal |
