Union Minister Of State for Human Resources Development Dr. Sashi Tharoor has asserted that he has shown no disrespect to the National Anthem,as alleged by a petitioner in the Kerala High Court. Addressing a Meet the Press programme at Thiruvananthapuram Press Club, Dr.Tharoor said a close scrutiny of the video clippings show that the allegation is baseless and politically motivated.

He said he has rejected the petitioners offer for an out-of-court settlement, as his self-respect as a truly partriotic Indian has been questioned.Nothing short of an unconditional withdrawal of the case is acceptable,he said. Dr. Tharoor said he has complete faith in the judicial system of the country and will fight the case till his name is cleared.

Answering queries, the Minister said Cochin University of Science and Technology will be upgraded as a Central Institution. Steps will be taken to open an office of the All India Council for Technical Education in Thiruvananthapuram, the Minister added. The matter of setting up a High Court Bench in Thiruvananthapuram will be taken up with the new Union Law Minister,.Dr. Tharoor said.