It is reported that the Centre and the Comptroller and Auditor General are set for a legal face off after the auditor found fault with some of the key resource allocations in 2G spectrum and coal blocks.

In a virtual defence of former Telecom Minister Mr A Raja, sources in the government drew a parallel between the 2G spectrum and coal block allocations. Sources revealed that the government might legally challenge the CAG's jurisdiction on commenting on policy matters.

Sources revealed that the coal ministry would seek law ministry opinion on the subject next week. The government then might frame its legal challenge and course of action and may file a clarification petition.

Government sources said it was not in the CAG jurisdiction to comment whether a policy decision was correct. Sources asserted that formulating policy was the sole prerogative of the government and the CAG must limit its role to that of an advisor.

Referring to adverse CAG findings on 2G and coal block allocations, the government also maintains that decisions were not aimed at maximising revenue but at larger public interests.

Source - India Today

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