'No compromise on country's security interest'

Against the backdrop of allegations by the former allies against the government and the Congress leadership, she said they  did not not need certificate of patriotism from anyone.      

Strongly backing the prime minister, she said the country needs access to latest nuclear technology and fuel from other countries and asked how they could be faulted for trying to provide this to people.      

".....Yet we are being accused of going against the interest of our country. Let me state before you, before the whole country categorically. There is no no question of compromising on our security interest, on our nuclear programme and our independent foreign policy," Gandhi said addressing a public meeting here.      

In the Congress Working Committee (CWC) last week, she regretted the break up in ties with the Left parties but today she appeared more direct in replying to their criticism on the deal.      

The UPA chairperson said through India there was need for access to the latest nuclear technology and fuel from other countries.      

"And this is what we want to do for our people. And how can we be faulted for striving to provide all this for our people. Yet, we are being accused of going against the interest of our country," she said.       

Referring to the accusation that the government was going against the country's interest, Gandhi said without naming any party, "We do not not need any certificate from any party or anybody about our patriotism".