TIA correspondent
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NEW DELHI: Following pressure from opposition as well as congress party, the Communications and Information and Technology Minister A. Raja tendered his resignation Sunday evening. Prime minister accepted his resignation and forwarded president for approval.
Speaking to media persons here after meeting the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, Raja said in order to avoid embarrassment to the Government and maintain peace and harmony in Parliament, he has resigned from his post. He, however, said he will prove his innocence and did every thing in accordance with the law. He said his leader DMK chief M Karunanidhi has advised him to resign.
Raja’s alleged role in the 2G scam had allowed the Opposition to accuse the government of permitting corruption within its ranks. Parliament was stalled all of last week by the Opposition which demanded that Raja be sacked. Through the day, hectic political activities were seen in Delhi and Chennai. In Delhi, the Congress’ top rung, including the Prime Minster and Sonia Gandhi met to discuss Raja’s continuance in the union cabinet.
In Chennai, Raja met with DMK chief Karunanidhi twice before heading to Delhi.Raja’s term as Telecom Minister came under a cloud after a report by the Government’s auditor last week blamed him for costing the government close to one lakh 76 thousand crore rupees by undervaluing 2G spectrum in 2008, and, by following unfair practices in deciding who would be awarded 2G licenses. The Comptroller and Auditor General’s report (CAG) is to be tabled in Parliament shortly.
The Supreme Court which is monitoring the case is scheduled to hear the matter on Monday. The Opposition has also been asking for a Joint Parliamentary Commiittee to investigate the scam.