The government has initiated the process to cancel the AgustaWestland chopper deal after questions have been raised that the company bribed several middlemen, and also former Air Chief S P Tyagi to secure the sale of 12 helicopters for VVIP movement in India.

Under fire from all quarters for not probing allegations that have surfaced in the media for the last one year, The Centre today sent a showcause notice to AgustaWestland UK, asking them why the contract should not be cancelled.

All payments have already been stopped to the company. The Centre has sought Agusta's response in the next 7 days.