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PMO engaged in parallel negotiation on Rafale

The Prime Minister’s Office ran parallel negotiations with France even as the defence Ministry was working out the Rafale fighter jets deal.

“The government can use the law against everyone, including Robert Vadra and P Chidambaram, but must answer questions on the Rafale deal.”

Rahul Gandhi claimed vindication, saying the Supreme Court judgment on Rafale deal is also now under question.

PMO engaged in parallel negotiation on Rafale
PMO engaged in parallel negotiation on Rafale.

A report in the Hindu on Friday said that the Prime Minister’s Office ran parallel negotiations with France even as the Defence Ministry was working out the Rafale fighter jets deal, ultimately weakening India’s position on the negotiating table, citing an official note.

According to the report, the note dated November 24, 2015, was sent to the Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar and recorded defence secretary G. Mohan Kumar’s opposition to the alleged interference of the PMO in the middle of intense negotiations.
Congress chief Rahul Gandhi claimed vindication, saying the Supreme Court judgment on Rafale deal is also now under question.

PMO engaged in parallel negotiation on Rafale
PMO engaged in parallel negotiation on Rafale

According to Gandhi, it is an open and shut case. “The government can use the law against everyone, including Robert Vadra and P Chidambaram, but must answer questions on the Rafale deal.”