BJP supports A K Antony but calls for judicious approach

NEW DELHI: Extending support to Defence Minister A K Antony on issues of military preparedness, procurement and modernisation, BJP today suggested adopting a judicious approach on these in the wake of allegations of corruption.

"Over the last few months facts, which have been coming out in public domain are indeed disturbing... issues which should be settled in closed doors are now becoming a matter of unnecessary public debates, which in subject of armed forces is to be avoided," Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Arun Jaitley said.

Raising the issue of Army Chief Gen V K Singh's allegation that he was offered bribe of Rs 14 crore for passing a contract for sub-standard vehicles, he said the government should take steps to end quickly the impression that "there is eventually civilian control of armed forces".

On why the Defence Minister or the Army Chief did not act at the time the issue was raised, Jaitley questioned, "Is this an issue both of whom have put blinkers on their eyes and not inquired into the matter at all...Then we are learning to live with corruption."

The Leader of the Opposition said, "We are completely with you if you want to cleanse", but said "defence preparedness and procurement and modernisation should not hamper".

"Such tendency is hurting the country's defence preparedness ... Therefore, we must adopt a judicious approach," he said.

His party colleague S S Ahluwalia expressed confidence in Antony but asked the terms of reference of the CBI inquiry.

Balbir Punj (BJP) said, "You are taking action on anonymous complaints. Here, the Army Chief is coming and complaining to you, then what action are you taking..."