Antony promises to probe Army Chief’s allegations

Mar 27, 2012 |

IANS

New Delhi

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Defence minister A.K. Antony on Tuesday told Parliament he would investigate Army Chief V.K. Singh's allegations of being offered a bribe of Rs 14 crore and assured that his ministry was looking at tightening the procurement process.

"I will go to any extent to investigate the Army Chief's allegations... all my life I have fought against corruption," Mr Antony told the Rajya Sabha.

He added that he was ready to cancel any contract tainted by corruption. The minister on Monday ordered a CBI inquiry into the allegations.

Gen. Singh has disclosed that he was offered a kickback of Rs 14 crore in his office by a retired defence officer, sending shockwaves through the defence establishment.

He, however, did not disclose the name of the lobbyist or the company he represented. What is more, Gen. Singh has contended that he had informed Antony immediately about the conversation.

Mr Antony said he had received no written complaint about the bribery allegation.

He also promised to streamline the defence procurement process. "We are also discussing how to tighten the system and improve the procurement process," said Mr Antony.

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