National Green Tribunal has slapped a 50,000 rupees fine on a scientist from the Environment Ministry but withdrew it later, warning officials against passing the buck on matters relating to the cleaning of Ganga. A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar said, in future any such act will follow a penalty of, adding it felt "very sad" on the way this important issue was being treated by officials.<br/><br/>The bench's reaction came after a scientist appearing for the Environment Ministry failed to answer its query on what would be the minimum flow required for the river. The bench, which is hearing the Ganga cleaning case on a day-to-day basis for expeditious disposal, had yesterday issued bailable warrant against Kanpur municipal commissioner for non-appearance. <br/><br/>However, it cancelled the warrant after his deputy appeared before the court today. NGT also warned, if the departments which are collectively responsible for cleaning of the river do not stop giving illusionary answers, it may pass some strict order.