United opposition to take on Centre over Rafale deal: Sachin Pilot

Congress leader Sachin Pilot Monday said the government's silence on the Rafale deal was "baffling" and asserted that the opposition was united in getting answers from the Centre on the aircraft procurement.

Addressing a press conference at the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) headquarters here, Pilot said the Congress wants a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to probe the matter.

"Congress has sought a JPC to probe the matter. I see no reason why the government should hesitate to form it," he said.

The party will launch a nationwide campaign covering "every state, district and block" and submit petitions, right from the Governor to the President, seeking a probe into the matter, he said.

The demand for a JPC will be taken up whenever Parliament convenes, added Pilot, who is the Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee president.

Accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government of not answering questions on the deal Pilot said, "I think the silence is more baffling. If anything that we are saying is wrong factually, then the government must come forward and clarify."
On whether the Congress plans to move the court on the issue, he said "all options are open...if we get no answers, including the JPC, then all our options are open."
Due processes to be followed in such deals like going through the Price Negotiation Committee, Cabinet Committee on Security, the mandatory Defense Procurement Procedure and getting the Cabinet Committee on Security nod were "set aside."
"This was done in complete disregard to the conventions and transparency all defence purchases are put through."
Pilot further said all indicators like the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited not being taken on board pointed to "malpractice."