The Defence Minister A K Antony has assured that the government will pursue the allegation of bribery in a defence deal to acquire 12 helicopters for Very Very Important Persons, VVIPs. Talking to reporters outside Parliament, Mr Antony said, serious action will be taken if anything mischievous is found.

The Defence Minister's assurance comes in the wake of media reports that Italy is investigating allegation that the helicopter-maker Agusta Westland has paid a commission of 51 million Euros, equivalent to over 350 crore Indian rupees, to a Switzerland-based consultant.