Asked for change in modalities for paying compensation: AoL

The Art Of Living Foundation, which was imposed an initial environment compensation of Rs.5 crore over use of the Yamuna flood plains for an event, on Saturday reiterated that it had sought change in modalities of payment.

In response to an IANS story, AoL said its lawyer had clarified that "it has no hesitation in paying the money but has only asked for change in modalities".

AoL lawyer Akshama Nath told IANS about the desire for change in modalities of payment if damage had been done to the floodplains.

"We have no objection in paying the penalty if at all any damage has been done to the flood plains. We have just informed the NGT that we may like to pay in form of a bank guarantee than cash in this case," Nath said.

AoL said it had been imposed an initial environment compensation Rs.5 crore and not a penalty over the World Cultural Festival held last month on the flood plains.

It said it was unable to immediately furnish Rs.5 crore and was allowed to pay Rs.25 lakh by the court.

--IANS

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