Chopper deal: Antony rules out resignation

Union Defence Minister A.K. Antony today ruled out his resignation in connection with the VVIP chopper deal and said that he is getting ready for Parliament session to begin. While interacting with the media persons Antony, said that he is sad and upset that such an incident had taken place in spite of all precautions and warnings. Antony further said that the government had nothing to hide and will explain everything in Parliament. A CBI team has left for Italy to probe the allegations of kickbacks in the deal. The Ministry of Defence earlier on Saturday had directed Joint Secretary A.K. Bal to travel to Italy to gather as much evidence as possible relating to the allegations of corruption in the acquisition of 12 AW 101 VVIP helicopters for the Indian Air Force. The Ministry of Defence has initiated action for the cancellation of contract for procurement of 12 AW101 helicopters for the use of VVIPs.