BJP rubbishes mine scam allegations, blames Gehlot

[related-post]

“An ACB probe against (suspended mining secretary Ashok) Singhvi had found that he had favoured Hindustan Zinc Ltd. While the probe had recommended an FIR against Singhvi, then chief minister Gehlot put pressure on the investigation and ensured that the action was limited to a departmental inquiry,” Parnami told journalists here.

Earlier in the day, Rajasthan PCC chief Sachin Pilot and AICC spokesperson Randeep Surjewala alleged a massive mining scam perpetuated under the Raje government.

The two leaders, addressing journalists in Delhi, alleged that precious mineral resources worth over Rs 45,000 crore were given away to favourites on a first come first served basis, instead of auction, in Rajasthan between 30-10-2014 to 12-01-2015.

The said allottments had allegedly been made by former principal secretary (Mines) Ashok Singhvi, who was arrested by the ACB last week.

Reiterating demands made by party leaders in Delhi, Gehlot urged Raje to “come forward” and accept CBI investigations into the Rajasthan mining allotment scam.

Gehlot, while supporting the demand for a Supreme Court-monitored CBI investigation in the allotment of 653 mines in Rajasthan, wondered why Raje always had Parnami respond to allegations against her.

“Earlier Lalitgate and now mines allotment scam has come into the open. Considering the seriousness of these, the chief minister should come forward to reply,” Gehlot said.

Regarding allegations levelled by Parnami, Gehlot said the truth would be revealed during the CBI investigation.