Mallya makes presence felt at Indian GP

Greater Noida, Oct 27 (IANS):

Sahara Force India co-owner Vijay Mallya made his highly anticipated appearance at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) here Saturday and ruled out any possibility of a protest by employees of Kingfisher Airlines.

The tycoon’s whereabouts have been the subject of considerable interest while his airline staff have protested at not being paid since March, while the country’s aviation regulator has suspended Kingfisher’s licence.

Mallya ruled out any possibility of protests from employees, saying that it would be impossible for people to gain access into the circuit.

“There is no question of any disturbance or protests. If people wanted to talk, they should have just come to my house. What is the point of coming all the way to Noida?” said Mallya.

“First of all you can’t get in. From outside the circuit, to get here is 15 km.”

When asked whether he was being elusive while the matter needed to be addressed, the business tycoon said: “Whatever settlement has been reached is because of my participation. I have always been available. I am not willing to get into any debate with anyone. I am here to enjoy the F1 race, let’s just do that.”

Commenting on Ferrari‘s decision to express support for the two Italian navy marines facing trial in Kerala for shooting two Indian fishermen in India’s territorial waters, Mallya said that it was a matter for the Italian team to deal with.

“I have no comments on this issue. This is a matter for the Ferrari team to deal with,” he said.