 "Michel is currently facing investigation by Indian authorities in connection with the 2010 deal for the purchase of 12 luxury helicopters from Italian firm AugustaWestland. ANI")
Christian Michel James, the alleged middleman in the AugustaWestland VVIP helicopter deal case, has said that the corruption related to the deal took place in Italy and not in India.
“No corruption happened in India. The corruption took place in Italy,” ANI quoted Michel as telling reporters.
When asked if he had any contact with the Gandhi family, Michel firmly responded, “Absolutely not.”
Michel is currently facing investigation by Indian authorities in connection with the 2010 deal for the purchase of 12 luxury helicopters from Italian firm AugustaWestland, meant for VVIP transport.
The case has drawn significant political attention due to alleged links to high-profile individuals in India.
The AgustaWestland VVIP helicopter deal was finalised during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) regime under the leadership of then-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh but became mired in allegations of kickbacks.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsMichel, the alleged middleman and accused in the Rs 3,600 crore case, was extradited from the UAE in December 2018.
He is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with alleged irregularities in the multi-crore chopper deal.
With inputs from agencies