Logjam over 2G scam: Mamata joins JPC chorus

New Delhi: The government is now under increasing pressure from the Opposition, and apparently even some of its own allies for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scam.  

Allies like Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress are now said to be keen on a JPC, though in a guarded approach Trinamool says it won't oppose the government publicly.

"There is no reason for us to be scared. If JPC happens, we are ok with it. All we are saying is that it is the decision of the PM and government. We just don't want to oppose their decision publicly," said Trinamool leader Sudip Bandopadhyay.

Meanwhile, Trinamool chief Mamata Banerjee has said that her party doesn't oppose a JPC probe into the spectrum scam. "We will be happy to see a JPC probe if PM takes the decision. We will support any decision by the PM," Mamata said.

She said that truth should come out, but her party won't quarrel with the government. "We are with the UPA, no question of toppling of government," said the Trinamool leader.

BJP SAYS CRACKS WITHIN UPA EXPOSED

The BJP has said the postponement of an emergency meeting called by the Congress to discuss the logjam in Parliament with its allies has exposed the cracks within the UPA. The party will continue to push for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scam till the government gives in, its spokesperson Tarun Vijay said. (Watch)

The meeting, called after Parliament was adjourned for the 17th consecutive day over the Opposition's demand for a JPC, was called off a short while before it was to start on Monday night.

This led to reports that the UPA is divided on the issue with some allies like Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress reportedly expressing willingness for a JPC.

But NCP chief and key ally of the Congress Sharad Pawar dismissed the reports.  After meeting Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Sharad Pawar said, "UPA is united, there is no rethink on the stand against JPC." (Watch)

Asked whether some of the UPA allies hold different views than that of the Congress which is opposed to formation of the JPC, he said "it will be a collective decision."

"I don't think any change is there. Opposition is insisting on JPC. Government thinks Public Accounts Committee is sufficient," he said. (Watch: Public accounts committee questions telecom department)

To a question whether the winter session was being adjourned sine die ahead of its scheduled conclusion on December 13, he said no such decision has been taken.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal also insisted that the government is under no pressure at all to call a JPC.

"We are under no pressure from anyone. But then we keep on discussing things. It is a dynamic process. Meetings do take place from time to time," Bansal, who has made a strong pitch against JPC, said.(Watch)

DEMAND FOR JPC: OPPOSITION UPS THE ANTE

Meanwhile, the stalemate in Parliament continued for the 18th day today, with the Opposition refusing to allow Parliament to proceed. Both houses were adjourned till tomorrow.

Non BJP Opposition MPs also staged a dharna outside Parliament.