External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee today said that discussions were going on among the ruling coalition partners over the Indo-US civilian nuclear deal, which has snowballed into a huge crisis for the government after vehement opposition by the Left parties against the deals operationalisation.
Chennai, Aug 25 : External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee today said that discussions were going on among the ruling coalition partners over the Indo-US civilian nuclear deal, which has snowballed into a huge crisis for the government after vehement opposition by the Left parties against the deal's operationalisation.
"The whole issue will be debated in the Parliament. But so far as discussions among the political parties are concerned, particularly those who are supporting the government, it always takes place," he told reporters on the sidelines of a function here.
The Left Parties, which provide crucial support to the government, have demanded putting a halt to all future negotiations of the deal leading to its operationalisation.
They have also warned the government of paying a 'political price' if they do not pay heed to their demand, raising doubts of the ruling coalition's survival.
All the eyes are on September meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) where Department of Atomic Energy Chief Anil Kakodkar is scheduled to be present.
Three more steps are left for the operationalisation of the nuclear deal that include agreement with the IAEA for India-specific nuclear safeguards, amendment in the Nuclear Suppliers Group's (NSG) charter and the passing of the text of the 123-agreement by the US Congress.
Refusing to divulge details on the progress of the talks with the Left leaders, Mukherjee commented, "Just wait and see," on being asked about the options left before the government to break the deadlock with the Communists.
A debate on the issue is most likely to take place on August 29 in the Parliament.
ANI