This refers to Sukumar Mukhopadhyay’s article “CAG versus PM: The fine print” (August 30). It is particularly significant that the writer has proved that the prime minister’s arguments are not tenable even on technical grounds. The piece is an excellent analysis of the Comptroller and Auditor General’s powers and functions that have unduly come under fire from the government. It has also proved that the government could have resorted to competitive bidding for coal blocks much earlier than it did. We certainly need parliamentary discussions on the matter to highlight the nuances of coal allocation for the public. It may be a good idea to cancel allotment letters of players who haven’t started production. If the blocks are auctioned again, the exchequer will receive substantial revenue that can bridge the fiscal deficit.
A C Chakrabortti, Kolkata
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