Crack in Congress; Pranab unhappy with PM's offer

New Delhi, Jan 2: The logjam between Congress led UPA government and Opposition parties over JPC/PAC probe in 2G spectrum scam is no longer a new issue. But this time it created differences in Congress itself as Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee stated that he is not happy with PM's decision.

Mr Mukherjee on Sunday, Jan 2 expressed that he is not convinced with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's decision of appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) for the investigation in 2G spectrum scandal.

During Congress' plenary meeting in New Delhi, the Prime Minister stated, "I have nothing to hide from the public and as a proof of my bonafides, I intend to write to the chairman of the PAC that I shall be happy to appear before the PAC if it chooses to ask me to do so."

In response to the PM's offer to appear before the PAC, the finance minister also claimed that Singh should not appear before any committee as he (PM) is responsible to Parliament.

"It is not correct to say that government did not take steps against corruption. We have already ordered a probe (PAC) into 2G controversy," stated Pranab.

On the other side, BJP with other Opposition parties continued with their adamant demand of Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) investigation in the second generation telecom scam.

Commenting on Opposition's JPC demand, Mr Mukherjee also said, "What is JPC? Is it coming from the heavens? I do not find any logic or justification in setting up a JPC."

"They (Opposition) should come back in the session. They should bring back normalcy. They should co-operate. We are always ready to listen to them,' he added.

OneIndia News