The Hindu : National : Lokpal should be autonomous like EC, says Hazare

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Thursday, Jun 23, 2011
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National

Lokpal should be autonomous like EC, says Hazare

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: Social activist Anna Hazare on Wednesday said civil society's aim was to vest autonomy in the Lokpal, much on the lines of the Election Commission, the Supreme Court and the RTI (Central Information Commission).

He, however, favoured keeping the bureaucracy out of the government's control, arguing that all corruption in the country was due to a nexus between people's representatives and the officialdom. “They distribute money among themselves and no money reaches the people.”

Acknowledging security threat emanating from Pakistan as a crucial factor, Mr. Hazare, however, questioned the logic behind the exclusion of the Prime Minister from the purview of the Lokpal, and said the nexus between the people's representatives and officials was more serious.

Sticks to fast decision

Accusing the government of betraying civil society and not being serious about fighting corruption, Mr. Hazare reiterated his decision to resume his fast at Jantar Mantar here on August 16.

Responding to a question, Mr. Hazare said he would court arrest if the government prevented him from launching his agitation and the people would also follow him into jail.

Mr. Hazare said it was time all like-minded people joined forces against corruption.

The social activist said he would not mind Baba Ramdev, who had also been agitating on this issue for several years, joining him provided the yoga guru clarified his stand on some of the issues that nagged him (Mr. Hazare).

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