As Reuters report, India is in political turmoil courtesy of yet another corruption scandal, this time nicknamed “Coalgate”. In summary, India’s Central Bureau of Investigation is investigating corruption allegations concerning the sale of coal concessions by the Indian Government to private companies. Only about US$33 billion in revenues have gone down various black holes or up some mine shafts and there are dirty finger prints all over the place.

India’s Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, was coal minister in the relevant period (2006 to 2009) when most of the allegedly corrupt sales occurred. As the Queen of England wears white gloves, last time she shook Manmohan Singh’s hand there were apparently clearly visible black marks (presumably traces of coal) left on her gloves afterwards. Meanwhile both houses of the Indian parliament are beginning to replicate scenes from Arthur Scargill’s memoirs.

This article was first published on 23rd August 2012.