New Delhi, December 16
The oil-for-food scam today took an interesting turn with Jagat Singh, the son of the former External Affairs Minister Natwar Singh claiming that the trip to Iraq was official and was sanctioned by the then Indian Youth Congress president Randeep Surjewala and present Haryana Minister, and he also handed over a copy of the sanction letter to the Enforcement Directorate.
Jagat Singh, who was questioned for the second day today, told reporters that he had denied all charges about his involvement in the alleged scam, including those levelled by Aneil Matherani, a one-time close associate of his father.
“The Enforcement Directorate is going according to what Aniel Matherni has alleged in that article to India Today... Most of it is totally incorrect. After all they are just allegations and everybody is aware of it,” he said.
Claiming that his trip to Iraq had the official sanction of the IYC, Jagat Singh said he handed over the letter dated January 4, 2001 and signed by Surjewala. The letter speaks about the then IYC chief’s intention to further ties.
Addressed to ‘Whomsoever it may concern’, the letter said “I send greetings on behalf of the Indian Youth Congress. Jagat Singh, General Secretary of the IYC, the bearer of this letter will be interacting with you in an effort to develop and strengthen the ties between our great organisations.
“We would also look forward to seeing you in India to pursue our common ideas and goals on secularism and socialism. We also look forward to the day that sanctions against your great nation are lifted.”
