Editor Accuses Govt Of Plagiarism

The state government was left red-faced on Monday, after the editor of science books and a science magazine called 'Discovery', D Srinivas Reddy, alleged that his efforts were plagiarised without his knowledge.

Bringing the issue to the notice of School Education Minister S Sailajanath, the magazine editor heaped up allegations against officials that his effort to produce science books which were designed to help promote knowledge among the poor rural students was now defeated.

"Poor boys cannot buy my books and magazines," he lamented.

Srinivas Reddy said that in 2005, a GO was issued for government schools to buy all his science books.

He also alleged that a former IAS officer had blocked his 'file' and the sale of his books, and that some staff members demanded a 20% commission for selling his books, which he had refused to give.

Following his refusal to bribe the officials, the science magazine was also stalled from being circulated in government schools.

Srinivas Reddy told media persons that 70,000 books were printed copying from his books.

"The copy is verbatim," he alleged.

The editor said that to register his protest he would even surrender his National Award. He said he would stop publishing his magazine if justice was not done.

Replying to his allegations, the Minister assured him he would examine the case within 10 days and take steps to revamp the Committee that selects the books for students.

Stating that the cost of the magazine of Rs. 60 was too high to be bought, the Minister appreciated the editor for his contribution.

"You must feel proud of the production of the magazine as it was sought by many schools," said Sailajanath.

The Minister, however, denied the editor's allegations, saying, "It was from a single person without proper basis."

The editor was told to send his publications and requisition to the government for a fresh examination of the proposal.

Sailajanath said that he would go through the magazine and offer his comments later. (INN)