Prime Minister of India - Dr. Manmohan Singh

Press Statement

Media reports quoting certain quarters about massive expenses from the Exchequer on UPA Chairperson's Overseas visits have been brought to the notice of the Prime Minister's Office.

The reports quoting an expense of Rs. 1880 crore are untrue and misleading.

The Central Information Commissioner has already denied these reports and made a statement.

The Prime Minister's Office would like to put on record that the Government has incurred no expenses on UPA Chairperson's visits abroad.  Expenses for her security contingent are borne by the Special Protection Group.

During the last 8 years only one trip to Belgium undertaken at the invitation of the Belgian Government to receive a national honour was paid for by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations. The total cost was less than Rs. 3 lakhs. 

It is further clarified that the Government has not borne any expenses for UPA Chairperson's medical treatment abroad and in India.