Cong walkout over power MoU

Raipur, Mar 6 (UNI) The opposition Congress today staged a walkout in the Chhattisgarh assembly, alleging that the Government overlooked the state's interests while inking a power generation MoU with M/s Texas Power Corporation (TPC).

Raising the issue during question hour, Mr Mohammad Akbar (Cong) sought details of the MoU which, he said, was signed outside the country. He also wanted to know who signed an electricity generation MoU with M/s Farel Engineering.

In his reply, state Minister for Commerce and Industry Rajesh Munat said an expense of only Rs 593 was incurred as the trip was sponsored. The minister was unable to provide the name.

Pointing out that a copy of the MoU was in his possession, Mr Akbar said the name of the person, who signed on the company's behalf, was unclear. ''I wonder why the minister is also unaware as to who was the signatory in the MoU for setting up a Rs 5,500-crore plant,'' he quipped.

Drawing attention to the other MoU, the Congress legislator said it provided for supplying power at concessional tariff.

While Mr Munat assured that the state's interests would be protected, the opposition demanded suitable amendments in the TPC MoU, saying that it must enshrine provisions for supply at concessional rates as the state agreed to provide land, coal and water to the companies.

The lone NCP Member, Novil Kumar Verma also staged a walkout.

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