A diplomatic reception. The kind where chandeliers gleam, and conversations are conducted in such a careful way that says nothing and means everything. The consular attestation scandal hung in the air, unspoken yet unmistakably present, like the smell of rain before it falls.

Four retired Ambassadors had been asked by a journalist about the best course of action to address this issue, given that past inquiry committees on important matters had not succeeded in resolving any. All four smiled and said nothing. But a brief discussion ensued once they had seen the back of that journalist.

Ambassador One: Journalists today frame their stories in the most sensational manner to attract engagement. Editorial oversight has sadly vanished. Hence, I would take this story with a considerable grain of salt. I very much doubt any DG has the means to unearth fraud of eighteen billion rupees. It would at best be a collection of unproven claims. The mafia has always existed and has survived every measure taken against it.

Ambassador Two: The figures cited, I mean, eight hundred thousand rupees for a single attestation, are shocking. We have all served in the Ministry and know such charges to be impossible. The Foreign Office must act. It cannot be pushed under the carpet.

Ambassador Three: And how would you explain the OSD posting of the investigating Officer? Optics are decidedly poor.

Ambassador One: The Ministry should not issue any rebuttal. Responding openly in public is not the right way. On the other hand, silence will be considered as accepting the charges. The journalist........

© The Nation