TNN
 
New Delhi, May 28: Taking a firm stand, defence minister A K Antony said on Wednesday said that the government will not hesitate to cancel defence contracts in case any malpractice is found.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a seminar, he pointed out that in the recent past, the government had “ruthlessly cancelled some big ticket items” when it found certain manipulations, adding, “In future also, I cannot say if there is malpractice we will take a lenient view.”

During Antony’s previous tenure, the government had cancelled the Eurocopter light utility helicopter deal last year. Talking tough on corrupt practices in defence procurements, the minister warned foreign suppliers “not to try and bribe our people”. “If they try, they will face the consequences, as also the officers and manufacturers who are in touch with them,”

he said indicating the government’s firmness in rooting out corruption. On challenges that India faces in its neighbourhood, the minister said instability in the region is a cause of concern.

In view of this, modernising the forces becomes important which leads to largescale procurement of defence equipment and weapons, he added.

“We must always be ready to meet any kind of threat. For that, the armed forces need more modern equipment,” Antony said, adding that the government is determined to speed up procurement while not compromising on transparency. Antony strongly favoured indigenisation of defence equipment and promoting self-reliance in meeting the requirements of the armed forces.