Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Thursday night described as “baseless and politically motivated” the allegations of Swaraj Abhiyan leaders that his government floated a global tender in a “shady manner” to purchase a specific AgustaWestland helicopter by paying “over 30 per cent” commission without exploring options.
‘Politically motivated’“The allegations levelled by former AAP leader Prashant Bhushan are baseless and politically motivated. There was no irregularity in the helicopter deal. It was done through the global tendering process, maintaining full transparency,” the Chief Minister said.
He said senior Congress leaders were facing the heat over the AgustaWestland chopper deal and these baseless charges against a BJP-ruled State was “an attempt to divert the attention.”
Earlier in the day, Swaraj Abhiyan leaders Mr. Bhushan and Yogendra Yadav accused the Raman Singh government of paying $1.57 million as “commission” to a firm registered in British Virginia Islands to buy the copter. — PTI
