BJP demands govt statement on WikiLeaks reports

Terming as "very serious" reports on leaked diplomatic cables suggesting a "US tilt" in 2006 cabinet, the BJP today demanded that the government clarify its stand on the issue.

"It is a very serious matter. Government should give a statement. We want the the government to clarify... whether a report has been sent by the ambassador in India," BJP leader Venkaih Naidu said.

The BJP leader said the US envoy should be asked to clarify and if needed India should lodge a protest with Washington.

"The US ambassador should also be asked about it," said.

"Government must ascertain whether these... are authenticated and such reports have been sent to the US. All these factors need to be ascertained then only one can come to conclusion.

"There are allegations that some are pro-US, some are not. There is also something about Kerala (in WikiLeaks). So government should clarify and if necessary then government should lodge protest."