The dreaded foot-in-mouth disease is common in the political circles, and no one knows it better than RR Patil. An injudicious comment — “Bade bade sheheron mein ek-adh aisi ghatna hoti rehti hai (such small incidents keep happening in big cities)” — attributed to Home Minister RR Patil following the 26/11 attacks substantially contributed to the NCP leader giving up the same portfolio soon after. Following Ajmal Qasab’s execution yesterday, when Patil was reminded of the alleged gaffe, he became emotional.

Media management: Home Minister RR Patil addressing the media following Ajmal Qasab’s execution yesterday. PIC/Bipin Kokate