Mamata Banerjee rules out differences with UPA Govt. over 2G scam

Kolkata, Dec 7 (ANI): Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday ruled out any differences with the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government at the Centre over a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to probe the 2G spectrum scam, even as she maintained that there should be a discussion in the Parliament over the issue.

Banerjee called for the formation of the parliamentary panel to probe into the telecom scam, adding that discussions on the matter in the Parliament were necessary.

"Number one, we are with the UPA (United Progressive Alliance) 2 government and our support will be totally with the Prime Minster and the government. No question about it that we will topple the government, or we will withdraw the support. Question doesn't arise, number one. Number two, yes, we want that truth should come out and that's why if the government forms the JPC, it is a government decision. We will be very happy to see it," Banerjee told reporters here today.

"So, if the matter is discussed, we will give our opinion but at the same time I want tell you that we will be happy to see the JPC, if the Prime Minister take a decision like this. I don't know what is the government's decision, but we want that it should be discussed in the House, it should be discussed on the floor of the House also and the truth should come out," she added.

Mamata Banerjee had earlier on December 3 said she had 'total faith in the Prime Minister' and indicated her willingness to abide by his decision.

The Railway Minister further commenting on the logjam of the Parliament that went into its 18th consecutive day today over the issue said the system should be restored, and there should be proper functioning of the Parliament.

"You see, Indian Parliament is our supreme parliament for democracy. We respect our Parliament because the Indian Parliament always fights for democracy and it is the beauty of the democracy. Sometimes opposition raise the issue, sometimes the government may raise their issue, but, it is the duty and beauty of the parliament's democratic system, but, what we want that instead of just stall this Parliament everyday, is it good?" said Banerjee.

"Let us discuss, government also can discuss, the opposition can discuss. The system should be restored, that I agree with all of them, but, at the same only to stall the House, the message is not going to the people also," she added.

Earlier today, the deadlock in Parliament over the 2G scam continued for the 18th straight day with the opposition remaining adamant on their demand for a JPC probe.

United Progressive Alliance (UPA) partners like the Trinamool Congress also joined the opposition in demanding a JPC investigation into the scam. The DMK, another major Congress ally, is also in favour of a JPC on the issue.

As soon as the Lok Sabha met, members of the BJP, SP, AIADMK and other opposition parties trooped into the well of the house to, demand a JPC probe.

As the din continued, Speaker Meira Kumar adjourned the house till Wednesday.

The Rajya Sabha also witnessed similar scenes, forcing Chairman Hamid Ansari adjourn the house till Wednesday.

The Winter Session of Parliament began on November 9 and has witnessed repeated adjournments over the opposition's insistence for a JPC probe into the 2G scam, even after A. Raja resigned as Communications and IT Minister. (ANI)