Rajya Sabha adjourned on Indo-US nuclear deal

New Delhi, Aug 3: Dissatisfied with the Government's response to its appehensions regarding the Indo-US nuclear deal, the Opposition today forced adjournment of the Rajya Sabha till 1400 hrs.

Raising the issue during the Question Hour, the Opposition members wanted that the government should come out with a categorical assurance to the House that the country's freedom to have a credible nuclear deterrence would not be compromised in agreeing to international safeguards under its agreement with the United States regarding civil nuclear cooperation.

Ms Maya Singh and Ms Sushma Swaraj (both BJP) said certain reports emanating from Washington were giving rise to apprehension that there might be some dilution of India's stand as given in July 18 declaration last year.

Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma said the Prime Minister had already assured the Parliament and the nation that there was no question of ''shiftingh goalposts''.

He said India will not go beyond its commitment in the July 18 declaration. Only the available civil nuclear facilities were being discussed, he added.

However, his reply could not satisfy the Members and they demanded a reassurance from the government on the issue.

There was heated exchange between the BJP and the treasury benches, which finally forced Chairman Bhairon Singh Shekhawat to adjourn the House till 1200 hrs.

UNI

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