New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has “wholeheartedly” welcomed the Supreme Court verdict on Rafale aircraft deal with the apex court categorically dismissing the review petitions and noted the Government stands vindicated.

“The Supreme Court verdict is also a judgement on our Government’s transparency in decision making,” he said, adding that “the purchase of Rafale jets was done in a completely transparent manner keeping in mind the urgency to update and upgrade India’s defence preparedness.

“The issues pertaining to defence preparedness and national security should never be politicised.

“The allegations made by certain political parties and their leaders in Rafale jet purchase were extremely unfortunate, unwarranted and laced with malicious intent. The verdict has rightly cautioned such politicians to be careful while making wild allegations.

“The allegation of corruption in Rafale deal was nothing but an attempt to malign the clean and honest image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Government.

“The people of India will not forgive the opponents for their slanderous campaign and calumny and they should apologise for misleading the people,” the Defence Minister added.