The Hindu : National : Natwar Singh's bid to make statement fails

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Saturday, Aug 12, 2006

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National

Natwar Singh's bid to make statement fails

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: The former External Affairs Minister Natwar Singh's attempt to make an explanation in the Rajya Sabha on his indictment in the oil-for-food scam proved futile on Friday. The House was adjourned twice amid uproar as Opposition members demanded that he be allowed his say. Earlier, Deputy Speaker K. Rehman Khan told Mr. Singh, who rose to speak during zero hour, that Chairman Bhairon Singh Shekhawat was still examining his notice, given under Rule 241, for making a personal explanation.

A visibly agitated Natwar Singh was arguing with the Deputy Chairman, who asked him to take up the matter with the Chairman.

His attempts to speak found ready support from BJP members, who shouted slogans, "Natwar Singh ko bolne do'' (Let Natwar Singh speak). The uproar continued with the BJP members trooping into the well and raising slogans.

Besides the BJP members, MPsfrom theSamajwadi Party, the Telugu Desam and the All-India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam said Mr. Singh had the right to make a personal explanation and the Chair should permit him. Mr. Singh had given the Chairman a written copy of his submission, which as per rules has to be vetted by Mr. Shekhawat.

Natwar leaves House

As the slogan-shouting Opposition members trooped into the well, the Deputy Chairman adjourned the House till 2 p.m. When it reassembled, he repeated his ruling, prompting Mr. Singh to leave the House.

Amid Opposition furore, the Deputy Chairman said, "Opportunity will be given to Mr. Singh to make his submission once the Chairman cleared it."

As the uproar continued, he adjourned the House again till 2.30 p.m.

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