Replying to a calling attention motion by leader of the Opposition, Jagdish Mukhi, Tirath said: ``The scam belongs to the time when BJP was in power and the Opposition wants to safeguard these officials. In the last three months I have tried to sort things out.''

Mukhi alleged that Tirath had withdrawn the orders of suspension against an erring officer who along with five others ``had swindled Rs 12.5 crore in spurious cheques drawn in the names of companies like Parul, Alpana, Ambe and Galaxy,'' Mukhi said.

Mukhi added: ``The Minister was also at a party organised by these officials in a hotel.'' Tirath, however, refuted the charges and said action would be taken against the officials.