#RafaleAudioLeak: Congress claims Goa CM in hold of Rafale files, says a journalist ‘leaked’ an audio clip to them

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala released an audio tape today via a press conference, touted to be a leaked conversation between Goa Minister Vishwajit Rane and an “unidentified person” purported to be a journalist.

In the tape the voice claimed to be of Rane is heard saying “The Chief Minister [of Goa, Manohar Parikkar] made an interesting statement … that ‘I have all the information on Rafale in my bedroom’. That means he is holding them to ransom..”

According to the Congress, the conversation took place after Parrikar held a cabinet meeting last week and the files in possession of Parrikar contain records of corruption and wrongdoing in the Rafale scam.

When questioned about the authenticity of the tapes Surjewala said, “We have placed the audio and the facts in front of you; now it is upon PM Modi to answer.” He said the identity of the other person has been deliberately kept confidential. What’s interesting is the source—“Mr X”—is a journalist who allegedly recorded the conversation and then, in a questionable move, handed it over to the Congress.

Vishwajit Rane denied his role in the tape saying the audio tape was “doctored”.

Goa CM Manohar Parikkar also rubbished the authenticity of the audio clip.

This resulted in a furore in the ongoing winter session of Parliament when Rahul Gandhi asked for permission to play the audio clip. Arun Jaitley countered, saying Gandhi has to authenticate the recording: “Last time Rahul Gandhi concocted an entire conversation.” Jaitley also said, ““Some people naturally dislike the truth. The French government dismissed the Congress’ allegations.”