Sushma: I challenge anyone to show papers recommending Lalit Modi

After the reports surfaced, 63-year-old Swaraj said in a series of tweets that she had taken a “humanitarian view” and conveyed to the British High Commissioner that they should examine Modi’s request as per their rules and “if the British government chooses to give travel documents to Lalit Modi that will not spoil our bilateral relations”. For two weeks, there has been a misinformation campaign against me”, she said, adding, “Almost three weeks are up and I don’t see any chance of a debate.

The External Affairs Minister challenged the opposition to present at least one note, letter or email which showed that she had asked the UK Government to present Lalit Modi with travel papers.

“Lalit Modi’s wife is suffering from Cancer since last 17 years, she was getting treated in research centre in Portugal. Doctors said this time her cancer is life-threatening”, Sushma informed the House.

“Did I help Lalit Modi flee India? No!”

The Opposition, led by the Congress, has been adamant on Sushma Swaraj’s resignation along with that of Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje over the Lalit Modi row. The minister said Congress had raked up a “non-issue” to stall key proceedings of the house and had done “injustice” to her by refusing to hear “her side of the story”. Stars are probably not in my favour, as those who have always supported me, are demanding my resignation.

The External Affairs Minister further put the ball in Congress president Sonia Gandhi’s court and asked as to what would be her action in a similar situation. “Would have left her to die?” “If you prove me wrong, I’m ready to face any penalty for it”.

“Help has been extended to that lady who is the citizen of India, who was not involved in the crime (IPL money laundering)”.