Did Sachin Tendulkar try to influence land probe against a friend? Key things to know

Cricketer said to have sought Defence Ministry's intervention in the issue that involved a property belonging to his friend and business partner

Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar has landed himself in a controversy for allegedly using a ministry’s influence to help his friend resolve a dispute over a resort in Mussorie, The Economic Times reported on Tuesday. While the Rajya Sabha member  confirmed meeting with Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, he denied having any ‘economic interest’ in the matter.

Where is the property?

The property in question is a plush resort belonging to his friend and business partner Sanjay Narang, one of Mumbai’s well-known restaurateurs, who owns such places as Waterstones, Pizza by the Bay and Eat Around The Corner. The resort is based in Landour cantonment in Mussorie known as Dahlia Bank. 

What is the issue?

The issue was related to a security dispute with the Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO).  The popular property has reportedly breached a 50-foot no-construction zone next to the Institute of Technology Management, an establishment of the DRDO. 

What is the allegation?

Tendulkar is said to be a frequent visitor to the resort. In a bid to help Narang rescue the resort, he reportedly set up a meeting with Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar. The Economic Times report claims Tendulkar even cut short a trip to Australia in order to meet Parrikar. After the meeting, the minister declined from intervening in a matter involving illegal construction next to a DRDO laboratory complex. 

The institute, in its allegations, said that Narang had taken permissions to build tennis courts but instead went on to construct full-fledged buildings.

What is Tendulkar’s defence?

The former Indian cricketer later on Tuesday issued a statement through his spokesperson. "Tendulkar attended a meeting following, which a formal written representation was submitted to the Ministry of Defence on a pending dispute regarding some development undertaken in Landour by Narang. Tendulkar has always maintained that the prevailing laws of the land should be upheld while giving a fair opportunity to all parties concerned to present their points of view," the statement added without giving details of whom he had met in the government.