HUL did not decide to engage NEERI on its own. HUL was directed by the Supreme Court Monitoring Committee to associate NEERI, as an independent expert, for the remedial measures. HUL is paying for all the costs of the cleanup and remediation at the site. The consultancy service rendered by NEERI was paid by HUL in line with this principle. There is no conflict of interest since NEERI is not the decision making authority. NEERI provides scientific expertise as an independent expert for the remedial measures. Decisions are taken by TNPCB and they in turn consult the Scientific Experts Committee for scientific recommendation as required. - http://archive.tehelka.com/story_main46.asp?filename=Cr310710onegram.asp