Anything To Declare, Mr Verma?
The arrest of the Central Board of Excise & Customs chairman has revealed the rot that has set in the premier revenue- collection authority. An inside story of his assets, and rise to position of power. Plus: The sex and smuggling controversy arising from his dubious links with Uzbek nationals.

The Silk Route
The Customs played an active role in a smuggling racket by Uzbek couriers that could have compromised the nation's security.

Rites Of Passage Despite stringent internal controls, the CBEC is one of the most sullied departments in the country.

The Earth Citizen
The former United States president returns to India to share the sorrows of quake-hit Gujarat.

In Quest Of Numbers
There's a scramble for winning combinations, from caste-based alliances in Tamil Nadu to political pragmatism in Bengal and Assam.

Green And Bear It
The Delhi Government's complacency leads to a bumpy ride for commuters.

Free At Last
Removal of quantitative restrictions on all imports will transform the Indian market like never before.

NEWSNOTES

Finance Minister YASHWANT SINHA feels the stock market scam will not have any long-term impact on the economy.

Q. The aura that surrounded your budget has been shattered in less than a month.
A. Firstly, I had not created any aura. Secondly, nothing has been shattered. Everyone welcomed the budget. Later developments are temporary in nature and will not have long-term effects on the economy.

Q. The Government has not faced any graft charges in the past but suddenly there is a barrage of allegations.
A. Corruption exists in the system. Individual cases keep cropping up but our Government is determined to fight corruption.

Q. There is speculation that some RBI officials were acting in collusion with Ketan Parekh.
A. I am not a journalist, so I won't speculate. I am in government and will take action based on facts. At present the RBI and SEBI are under probe.

Q. How will you bring economic reforms, which stand derailed, back on track?
A. Yes, there is a setback. But don't rush to the conclusion that the economy is derailed.

Q. What are your main worries about the economy?
A. I worry about the monsoons and the rise in petroleum prices. I worry about unpredictable problems.

-Pranjal Sharma

MetroScape

Rock Solid
Here's the big truth for those who doubted the band's durability: Deep Purple is still together--and after 33 years of full-detonation rocking.
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Looking Glass

Delhi Exhibition:
Ghislaine Aarsse Prins

Delhi Restaurant:
Art Diva Cafe

Mumbai Bar:
Starboard Bar