Gen V K Singh says was 'misquoted', seeks quashing of privilege motion

JAMMU: Former Army Chief Gen V K Singh has sought quashing of a Privilege Motion against him by the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly over his alleged remarks that Army had paid bribes to politicians in the state, saying various quotes ascribed to him are "inaccurate and incorrect".

In his response to Assembly Speaker Mubarak Gul on the breach of privilege notice, Gen Singh said, "In light of facts and circumstances, it is respectfully submitted that the allegations levelled against me by way of a breach of privilege motion by members of Legislative Assembly are not made out and appear to be a case of misinformation."

"Therefore, the same may kindly be quashed by your goodself (Assembly Speaker) and no further proceeding in regards thereto may kindly be carried out in the interest of justice," he said in his letter.

Gul had issued the notice on October 24 asking Singh to explain his position on allegation of pay-offs to some ministers from the army's secret funds during his tenure.

The J&K Assembly today made his reply public and sought comments from members, who had moved the privilege motion.

"In response to the allegations levelled against, I almost respectfully point out that various quotes ascribed to me are inaccurate and incorrect to the extent of being misquotes," he said.

Gen Singh further said that during the course of TV interviews referred to in the notice, "I have not spoken anything whatsoever that could even remotely affect or obstruct the functioning, decorum, dignity or position of the legislature or any of the members thereof as also anything whatsoever that shall impede the members in carrying out their legislative functions."