Coalgate: PM should be accused no. 1, says former coal secy

Parakh's statement "merits serious consideration," BJP deputy leader in Rajya Sabha Ravi Shankar Prasad said.

BJP spokesperson Prakash Javadekar said it was "ridiculous" that Parakh, a whistleblower and one who suggested correction in the system and introduction of competitive bidding, is being accused while the Prime Minister, who was the final authority, is not being held responsible.

Congress said the matter is under investigation and is being monitored by the Supreme Court.

"Unnecessary speculation," should be avoided, Union Minister Manish Tewari said, adding that Government has been "fully cooperating" on the issue.