P Chidambaram criticises ex-Prime Minister
Had the UPA-II cancelled those 2G licences itself it ‘’’might have contained the damage”
By : DC Correspondent
Update: 2014-11-08 02:13 GMT
New Delhi: Former finance minister P. Chidambaram said that though he suggested that the government cancels the 2G licences, it was decided that the courts should have the final view.
“Yes, I suggested it. I am sure that it was considered but the decision was that let the court take the final view,” he said. Mr Chidambaram pointed out that the issue was not discussed in the Cabinet.
“These are ideas which are discussed informally in small groups, in committees. I think the idea was suggested but the idea was not accepted,” he said. Mr Chidambaram said that had the UPA-II cancelled those 2G licences itself it ‘’’might have contained the damage.”
“I have always believed that it was a pretty simple decision rather than suffer a judgement and then try to work out the consequences of a judgement.”
He said that may be what held back those who had to take those decision was “we might rang ourselves in numerous litigation launched by the licences.” “I think it could have been handled rather than suffer a very damaging judgement,” said Mr Chidambaram.
Mr Chidambaram also suggested that Dr Singh was aware of the retrospective amendment in Income Tax act which was brought by then finance minister Pranab Mukherjee.
The retrospective amendment in the income tax is considered as one of the mis step by the UPA government which hit foreign investment in the country.
“Budget proposals are only between the finance minister and the Prime Minister ... I think the matter was discussed at some level and the decision was taken,” added Mr P. Chidambaram on retrospective amendment in IT Act.