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The Congress Party on Monday came out strongly against the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) demand to cancel 142 licences in coal block allocation, saying that it is ready to debate the issue on the floor of the Parliament. Addressing a joint press conference with Human Resource Minister Kapil Sibal and Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni, Finance Minister P. Chidambaram said, “There is no question of cancelling 142 licences in coal block allocation. We are ready for a debate, If the two leaders of the Opposition can argue their case eloquently outside Parliament, I am sure they can do so just as well inside Parliament.” He dismissed the BJP’s comments as “unfounded” and “without basis.” “If there is a difference of opinion on the PM's statement then the BJP should debate it in Parliament. Refusing to debate the issue in Parliament is like a slap on the face of the electorate. One member from the Opposition used the words 'Mota Maal', this should be avoided,” he said. Chidambaram also said that there was no need for having a trust vote in the Parliament. “This government enjoys confidence of the people and Parliament. Why should we seek vote of confidence? We are in majority.” Chidambaram said.

Gov ready for a debate on coal block allocation: Chidambaram