The government has dismissed the demand of the opposition for cancellation of 142 licences in coal block allocation. It also rejected the allegations that the Congress party got bribes in the case. Addressing a joint press conference in New Delhi this evening, Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram took strong exception to the BJP leader Sushma Swaraj's comment that the government made hefty gains in allocating coal blocks to private parties. He termed it as most unfortunate and unbecoming and urged the opposition to avoid making such sweeping statements.

Mr Chidambaram said that the Prime Minister's long and detailed statement deserves to be debated in Parliament to clarify the issue. Appealing to the opposition to join discussion over the issue, he said it is the way to advance parliamentary democracy and debates enlighten people rather than dilute an issue. Criticising the BJP for stalling Parliament, Mr Chidambaram said everyday debates outside the Parliament weaken democracy.

Mr Chidambaram said there is no reason and need for the government to seek a vote of confidence as it enjoys the confidence of Parliament and people of the country. The Finance minister said fair criticism of CAG is perfectly permissible saying Supreme Court judgements are also subject to fair criticism.

Information and Broadcasting minister Ms Ambika Soni took a dig at BJP leader Arun Jaitley for justifying stalling of Parliament.

Speaking on the ocassion, Human Resource Development minister Kapil Sibal hoped pressure by allies, critics in the media and people of the country will persuade the BJP to come to Parliament and participate in the discussion.