The UPA and the opposition is headed for a showdown over the JPC’s final report on the 2G scam probe as the ruling camp seems to have successfully turned down a key demand of the other side: to call finance minister P Chidambaram as witness before the panel.
Not only Chidambaram’s appearance looks impossible but — as the JPC proceedings near conclusion — chances are slim even for seeking his written clarification. The opposition earlier was adamant on calling him.
But JPC chairman PC Chacko said, “When I proposed on Tuesday that we stop calling more witnesses after the next meeting, no one objected.” Chacko said during the last few meetings, he didn’t face any fresh demand to call Chidambaram.
“I have also told members that any further extension of the panel is not possible. We intend to place the report by March-end,” he added.
Earlier, the BJP leaders even staged walkouts and BJP leader Yashwant Sinha and Chacko engaged in a sharp exchange of letters on the issue of calling FM.