Manmohan Singh owes answer on judicial appointment, says AIADMK

NEW DELHI: The issue of extension of a Madras High Court judge under corruption cloud cast its shadow over Parliament for the third day today with AIADMK seeking response of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on the matter.

Raising the issue during Zero Hour in Rajya Sabha, AIADMK member V Maitreyan said the Prime Minister's office, during Manmohan Singh's tenure, had asked why the Supreme Court collegium had not recommended extension for a Madras High Court judge who was under corruption cloud.

"Dr Manmohan Singh owes an answer to the country. He should break his silence. His silence only confirms the allegation," Maitreyan said and also sought a statement from Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on the issue.

Deputy Chairman P J Kurien said the former Prime Minister was not liable to answer.

"He is not the Prime Minister anymore. He is not expected to answer," he said.

In the Lok Sabha also, AIADMK raised the issue and wanted to know whether the government would look into the matter.

AIADMK leader M Thambidurai wanted to know who were the DMK Ministers involved in the matter and also cited reports that former Prime Minister's office was involved in the judicial appointments.

There has been furore in Parliament for last two days over the issue.