Release 185

SBS Telecast

Your Central Coordinator had faxed to the SBS (fax no: 02 9430 3700) the attached letter of protest to SBS regarding the proposed telecast containing anti-Sai Baba sentiments.

(Printed on Sathya Sai Organisation of Australia & PNG official letter head)

SBS Policy Manager
Special Broadcasting Service
Crows Nest

SBS TV screening of the program "Insight" on Sathya Sai Baba
Thursday the 12th of February 2004

We wish to PROTEST the proposed screening of the above program on Sathya Sai Baba for the following among other reasons: -

1. The anti Sai Baba group have sought to produce videos of alleged sexual assaults of Sai Baba's alleged devotees. None of these allegations have been established beyond doubt.
   
   
2. As sex abuse stories attract media and of public interest, you (SBS) have been the source whereby the anti Sai lobby have got you to screen this video on hearsay evidence.
   
   
3. One would expect SBS, an entity recognised for their independent reporting, to make their own investigation and screen a truthful newsworthy program.
   
   
4. In matters of this nature, one has legal rights to safeguard and protect the name of Sai Baba - such course of action will not be in accordance with Sai Baba's teachings where his devotees are called upon to "freely examine and experience" his Divinity.
   
   
5. As for the anti Sai group, some of them subsist on the generous welfare handouts of government and exist on Disability Pensions (disability being physical or mental) have the time to conjure up situations. Some of the anti Sai group are eccentric, neurotic and their behaviour and attitude are equally bizarre.
   
   

We expect SBS to either withdraw the screening or at least to announce before or after the screening that the "show" was not one produced by SBS. Such steps will avert any action against SBS and will maintain the truth.

The Sai Organisation, which is a voluntary free democratic organisation, is involved in dissemination of Sai teachings. The Sai Organisation covers most of the countries of the world and participants include Heads of State, Intellectuals, Psychiatrists, professionals and people from all walks of life.

We are ready and willing to be interviewed for a program which you may screen. This will enhance your reputation as a free and independent entity. Truth triumphs.

T. Sri Ramanathan
Regional Central Coordinator

sgd. T. Sri Ramanathan
Regional Central Coordinator
Sathya Sai Organisation
Australia & Papua New Guinea
43/84, St. Georges Crescent
Drummoyne NSW 2047
Tel: 02 9181 3223
Fax: 02 9181 1247
E-Mail: srir@agsm.edu.au
10th February 2004  


©Sathya Sai Baba Organisation of Australia and PNG