In his response, Howa has forwarded to Bizcommunity.com Sundaram's letter of resignation, and we publish it here verbatim, as we do Howa's message to the staff of ANN7 following claims Sundaram is reported to have made to the media, and news reports surrounding the issue:
Sundaram addressed his letter, headed "Resignation" to "L N Goel" and "Atul" and cc'd Howa in the same message:
"Subject: Resignation
Dear Laxmi ji and Atul ji,
I have had the most exhilarating 3 months working with Infinity Media. It has been by far the best phase in my career. Working with the launch team and taking it from a shell to a wonderful world class channel has been my honour and privilege.
I have gained a lot from the wonderful management team both as a journalist and as manager. The passion and determination I have seen and learnt here will remain with me throughout my life.
However, at this point I would like to part ways with Infinity media and spend time with my ailing mother.
While I would like to be relieved at the earliest, I assure you that I will stay with the project for as long as I am needed.
Please teat [sic] this communication as my resignation letter.
I have the highest love, regard and respect for the two of you and leave with the satisfaction of having played my small role in launching a wonderful institution that I am sure will outlive me.
Thank you for your love, support and help at every step of the way.
I seek you blessings for my journey ahead.
Rajesh Sundaram"
Howa then sent the following message out to ANN7 staff:
"Since this letter or [sic] resignation, several meetings have taken place between Rajesh and the management of the company to manage the process around his exit and the appointment of a new editorial leader. Unfortunately, the discussions broke down yesterday and today we have received several media queries about our operation which include many wild, unfounded allegations.
I am expecting several sensational claims in the press this weekend and I thought it best to alert you to this possibility.
As a team, we have managed to improve our channel multifold since launch and we know we still have a long way to go. The company remains hugely appreciative of the huge efforts everyone is making to ensure our success. We would not be where we are today without your efforts..."
The message to staff concludes with information on the search for a replacement consulting editor.
Since, and while these events unfolded, Sundaram is alleged to have made further claims, including one that ANN7 is to be pro-ANC, that he Former ANN7 fears for his safety and that staff at ANN7 are abused.
Bizcommunity.com publishes the above in good faith.
