Union information technology minister Pramod Mahajan on Sunday refuted the Opposition's allegation regarding irregularities in purchase of coffins by the Defence Ministry and dared them to furnish proof in support of it. Defending Union Defence Minister George Fernandes, Mahajan accused opposition parties of launching a misinformation campaign on this matter.

The aluminium coffins were purchased from a US firm, which had a monopoly in the field, with a view to show honour and respect to martyrs, he told reporters in Lucknow. The government bought 150 aluminium coffins priced at $250 each for a total cost of Rs 1.5 crore.

Mahajan challenged those criticising the deal to let the government know if they knew any company, which was ready to supply the aluminium coffins at a lesser price.
The persons, who committed serious irregularities in purchase of Sukhoi fighter planes, are now making noise over the issue, he said.

Stating that Ram Temple was not an election issue, he said there was no Parliamentary Commitee on Ram Temple issue.
Mahajan said the UP Assembly poll results would have no affect on the NDA government and hoped the BJP would secure absolute majority.

Bureau Report