Turmoil in state peeves Aussie IT firm

• In the article, Emerson has been mentioned as Australian multinational that specializes in power related hardware products. I would like to clarify that Emerson Network Power is a part of Emerson Electric, a US-headquartered US$20.1 billion Business Critical Continuity provider.
  
  
• The report mentions that the event that was scheduled at 5:30pm on March 14, 2007 had to be postponed to 7:00pm due to a sudden violence that erupted in the city. As per the invitation that was sent to all the attendees, the following was the schedule of the event:
  • 6:30pm-7:00pm – registration
  • Event - 7:00pm onwards
    
    
• The story also mentions that due to sudden violence in the city, the attendance in the event was very low. I would like to clarify that more than 130 officials attended the event and it was one of the most successful events for Emerson in Kolkata.
  
  
• None of the Emerson officials commented on the incident as reported. The two quotes in the story attributed to Emerson’s senior officials are misleading. The journalist was not present at the event and the reactions of Emerson officials captured in the story are basis his interaction with the IT software professionals attending the event. He has not verified these comments with the company officials.

The two quotes for your reference are:

Shocked Emerson officials said later that “the ambience in the state was perhaps not suitable for business”

Interacting with local IT officials at a dinner after the presentation, Emerson representatives said they will rethink their Kolkata plans as the state is going through political turmoil

The story therefore misrepresents Emerson’s views about the state and the government. This may create misunderstanding and impact Emerson’s relationship with its clients in West Bengal.

Basis the above, I am sure you realize the sensitivity of the matter. I would appreciate if Times of India could speak with Emerson to get a real-perspective on the following:

• Emerson Network Power India and its operations
  
  
• How Emerson Network Power is playing a critical role in today’s knowledge economy by supporting networks, datacenters etc.
  
  
• Significance of West Bengal as a market and work being currently done by Emerson in the state
  
  

I can arrange for an interaction with Emerson’s senior executives in India to provide our opinion on the above. We value our relationship with the Times of India and look forward to working with you in the future.

Regards,

Ankesh Kumar
Champion - Marketing & Communication
Emerson Network Power (India) Pvt. Ltd.