Press Breifing Monday, 19th Oct 2009

Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi addressed the media today.

On the question whether there was any connection between Malegaon and the recent Goa blast, Dr. Singhvi said that it is not possible to offer any comment at this stage. If there seems to be any similarity in the two incidents, it should be investigated thoroughly.

On the question of raising objection on the statement of Shri Jairam Ramesh by the BJP on the dumping of contaminated material by US ships, Dr. Singhvi said that let us be very clear. The clarification, if any, has to be sought from and given by either the Hon?ble Minister or the PMO. This is not a matter which the party has had consultations and would not like to comment.

On a further related question whether the UPA Government is giving a free hand to US Government to dump the contaminated material; Dr. Singhvi said that there is no question. There is no change in the policy of any kind and indeed some of these matters in the earlier round have gone to the Apex Court also and there should be absolutely no cause for speculation or alarm in that regard.?

On the question of registration of cases against Shri Amar Singh, Dr. Singhvi said that the Congress party from this podium adopts one principle and that is, the law should take its own course without any partiality and we do not offer any comments on individual cases.

On the question of Congress party's assessment on the outcome of the assembly election in three States, Dr. Singhvi said that it is not only a question of Congress party's assessment. You will find in less than 48 hours, what we have been telling you very clearly and unequivocally, the Congress party will emerge victorious with full mandate in the States.

On the question of strategy of the Congress party in selection of Chief Ministers of the three States which have gone to the polls, Dr. Singhvi said that the Congress party does not change its policy according to the season. The Congress policy is the same.

On the question over the delay in investigation of helicopter crash in which YSR was traveling, Dr. Singhvi said that it is not good to speculate on such serious and tragic matter and further said that he completely condemns the formulation behind the question. There is no question of delay. This is a serious matter which was investigated immediately after the incident. The report is also there. It will be disclosed at an appropriate way, time and channel. Dr. Singhvi further requested not to raise any doubts on tragic serious matters.

Tom Vadakkan

Secretary, AICC