Govt may have to ‘circumvent’ SC ruling on oil PSUs: Dy PM

Asked whether he was now ‘‘courting manoeuvers,’’ Advani said: ‘‘It happens with every government.’’

Last month, the apex court had asked the government to seek approval of Parliament for sale of its equity in HPCL and BPCL.

Emphasising that the apex court ruling was not an end to disinvestment policy, Advani said: ‘‘This government is committed to economic reform…because of this judgments of the Supreme Court several options are being examined in certain matters.’’ ‘‘Though there have been difficulties created but we are examining the judgments fully. And even after that (SC judgments) the first meeting of the cabinet committee on disinvestment undertook several measures,’’ he said. Advani hoped to see major disinvestments in the remaining part of the fiscal year. Asked if the revenue target of Rs 13,200 crore from disinvestment proceeds in 2003-04 would be met, he replied ‘‘I hope so.’’

‘‘I can’t guarantee it certainly because after all what is the law of the land? The Supreme Court pronounces the law of the land. And, therefore, we are face to face with the Supreme court judgments, which we have to find a solution for,’’ he said.

Expressing confidence in going through with the disinvestment agenda despite opposition from ruling allies, Advani said: ‘‘We have done it in the last five years. We had difficulties within the government.’’

‘‘After all, it is a democratic government, and then there too it’s a coalition government. You have to discuss it with colleagues and come to a conclusion. By enlarge, we have moved in the direction of economic reform which have been satisfactory to all,’’ he said.