Government's stand on gas row dishonest: RNRL

Anil Ambani-owned Reliance Natural Research Limited opposed government’s move to become a party in the dispute over natural gas between the Ambani brothers. In an affidavit filed before Supreme Court, RNRL termed the government’s attempt as “dishonest”. Timeline: Gas dispute

Anil Ambani-owned Reliance Natural Research Limited (RNRL) on Tuesday opposed a Union of India’s move to become a party in the dispute over natural gas between the Ambani brothers.

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In an affidavit filed before Supreme Court, RNRL termed the government’s attempt as “dishonest” and “collusive”.

“RNRL objects to the leave to appeal to be granted to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MOPNG),” the group said in the affidavit, countering government’s petition. “The stand of MOPNG is dishonest and collusive,” it said.

RNRL said that if the government is made a party, its right to full discovery, inspection and cross-examination should be preserved. “RNRL assures this court it will not waste any time in the disposal of the matter,” it said.

Meanwhile, Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) denied holding talks with RNRL for an out of court settlement.

“RIL has made it clear that it is not open to ‘settle’ issues arising in this matter in view of several factors including promulgation of the Gas Utilisation Policy (GUP) by the Government of India. This matter is now in the court,” RIL said.

Senior advocate Harish Salve for RIL said his client was a mere contractor chosen by the government to explore and harness natural gas and the State remained the real owner.