EC may put lid on row with Salman Khurshid

The Election Commission is likely to put a lid on the controversy involving Law Minister Salman Khurshid after he expressed regret over his remarks on the minority sub-quota issue.

Sources in the poll panel on Tuesday said that the matter was being discussed in a meeting of the EC to take a final call on it.

The poll panel wants to end the matter now in view of Khurshid's regret and assurance of not raking up the matter again.

In a letter delivered to the EC last night, Khurshid said that he bows to the wisdom of the EC and has given his commitment to ensure that such a situation does not arise again.

Khurshid's letter came close on the heels of Congress disapproving his comments against the poll panel, saying that people occupying posts of responsibility should speak responsibly.

In a short communication, Khurshid said, "I treat this matter as unfortunate and regret the statement...it has never been my intention to transgress the law and undermine the election code of conduct. I have great respect for the Commission and the decisions it takes and has taken..."