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Vajpayee defends three ministers

Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee Thursday defended his three ministers chargesheeted in the Babri Masjid demolition case, saying he would not seek their resignations under any circumstances.

Vajpayee said Union minister Harin Pathak's resignation could not be equated with the demand for that of these three ministers - L K Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi and Uma Bharti.

He was replying to a two-day discussion on an Opposition-sponsored censure motion seeking resignation of the three ministers.

"Neither the Constitution nor the law disqualifies a minister from holding office because of charges filed by the police or because of charges framed by a court," the prime minister said.

"His (Pathak's) resignation was under different circumstances and on his own wish. He was asked not to proceed with the resignation and allow the court to decide on the matter. But he was firm on his decision to quit," he said.

Rejecting outright the Opposition demand for resignation of the three ministers, he said: "There is no question of accepting their resignations. Even if they put in their papers, I will return them."

"I know my colleagues very well. They have been given (ministerial) responsibilities in accordance with their capabilities. The case is in the court and awaiting disposal," the prime minister said.

"I am sorry that I cannot accept the motion to drop some of my colleagues," Vajpayee said.

PTI

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