BJP flays PM's statement on Indo-US Agreement

New Delhi, Aug 9 (UNI) Reiterating its reservations over the Indo-US civil nuclear deal, the BJP today lambasted Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for his statement that the 123 Agreement was non-negotiable, saying he had "displayed shocking disregard for public opinion" against the deal.

"The Prime Minister's arrogant statement on the eve of the Parliament session makes a debate on the issue redundant," the party said Addressing newspersons, BJP spokesman Prakash Javadekar said the "bullish attitude" of the Prime Minister had created "doubts" about the deal and as to why the Government was in such a hurry to rush through with the agreement.

The party warned Dr Simgh that it was not merely a deal but about India's sovereignty. "He should not forget that he is not carrying a majority national will as practically everybody outside the Government, including parties supporting UPA, have expressed their reservations on the deal." Mr Javadekar said the government had no moral right to bind the nation to a 40-year agreement without a decisive mandate.

UNI