CM Ibrahim, who was civil aviation minister in the HD Deve Gowda-led United Front government in 1996, reacted sharply to Ratan Tata’s statement that he wanted to start an airline but could not because a minister demanded Rs15-crore bribe.
CM Ibrahim, who was civil aviation minister in the HD Deve Gowda-led United Front government in 1996, reacted sharply to Ratan Tata’s statement that he wanted to start an airline but could not because a minister demanded Rs15-crore bribe to clear his proposal.
Here’s the text of Ibrahim’s statement: I am surprised at the statement of Tata. It is not right for him to make such serious allegations without naming the minister. I urge him to disclose the name.
Tata has already filed a case against me related to Bangalore International Airport. I hope I will get justice.
I don’t know why Tata is not allowing me to lead a peaceful life. I did not commit any error. I am honest and clean and have not taken bribes. If I would have, I would not have led a life trying to repay loans. I have to repay a Rs40-crore loan and my property was put on auction. I am struggling to lead a normal life.
You will not believe it. I did not contest the last election because I have no money.
When I was civil aviation minister, I met Tata twice. The first time was when he wanted to start an airline. In my tenure, we took a policy decision not to permit foreign airlines in India. At that time, Tata approached me and said he wanted to start an airline with foreign collaboration. I rejected, saying our policy did not permit multinationals in aviation sector. I told Tata you can come on your own, don’t bring any collaboration. With that policy, I saved crores for our country.
Tata should name the minister who asked for bribe to set up an airline, otherwise I will write to the prime minister to order a CBI probe into the issue. If Tata does not name the minister, I will commit suicide.
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