While I support all possible measures to stop all forms of corruption and black money, I do not support the

method adopted by the team led by Anna Hazare. I do not want to destroy the constitutional mechanism and institutions of which I am proud of, notwithstanding their shortcomings. If Parliament is not reflecting and acting as per the interest of voters, we need to elect candidates and parties which will meet our aspirations and directions. We cannot destroy the Parliamentary system, just as we cannot destroy the judiciary, the rule of law, the bureaucracy and a free press. While many other countries which got freedom from colonial rules during the last few decades could not organise such constitutions and institutions like ours, this is a matter of pride for us. Could we throw the baby out with the bath water? Comparisons with Gandhian struggle are not correct. Gandhiji was fighting a foreign ruler and his mission was to send out the foreigners and get Independence. He mobilised the common people as well as the educated and, often, his fast was against his own people when there was communal flare-up, or when his people killed Britishers. I will not belittle or ridicule our Independence by saying that we have no independence, just the goras (whites) have gone and kalas (blacks) have come, as Anna has declared. I felt sad to hear that comment from someone who claims to follow Gandhiji. He also says the electorate do not know how to elect, that elections are a sham and that Parliament does not represent people. One of his followers, who was also a senior central service officer, declares that Anna is India and India is Anna. Yet another says the notification of the standing committee inviting comment from the public at large on the Lokpal is eyewash and a diversionary tactic. Anna says he will fast till death unless his bill is passed by August 30. All these make one terribly worried about the democratic path we have chosen and of which we are all very proud. An imperfect democracy is far better than a perfect dictatorship. The claim of Anna and half a dozen people that they represent the Indian public is nothing but dictatorial. We cannot be fooled by the few thousand people who are gathering on the Ramlila grounds. They are angry with corruption, but do not understand the nuances of democratic institutions. For many, it is a picnic, fun and getting a chance to be on national TV. There are several issues that can be pushed by similar individuals and groups who can draw a much bigger crowd. Some of these issues are recognised as desirable in the Directive Principles of our Constitution and have been dormant since 1950. The women's reservation bill appears to have the backing of all major political parties with a two-thirds majority in Parliament but it is yet to come up before the Lok Sabha and far from becoming a law. What will happen if some people start similar agitations seeking to get these measures passed as law within a given time? What will happen when someone goes on a fast unto death at Jantar Mantar asking total independence for Kashmir and someone else sits on a similar fast demanding abolition of the special status given to Jammu and Kashmir? Will the Jan Lokpal bill stop all corruption? It is only a mechanism to punish the guilty who are caught. What about those who are not caught and where there is mutual approval of giving and taking bribe? Remember that a large part of bribe-givers are happy and willing to chase officials privately with money to escape lawful punishment, avoid paying taxes and dues or to jump the queue to get benefits not due to them or to get ahead of those who are waiting. They are not going to complain to anyone. I believe a major part of the bribe given to government servants is in this category and a smaller part is where government servants harass and demand bribe. I was in government service for long and the bribe offer is higher than the bribe demand. How will a highly placed institution like Lokpal stop such cases?

Do not NGOs and private enterprises indulge in corruption? Companies take bribe and even individual entrepreneurs demand bribe from their suppliers and contractors to create black money. A company gets a supply or work done for Rs. 1 lakh and asks the supplier or contractor to give a bill for Rs.1.1 lakh, give him a cheque for 1.10 lakh and take back Rs. 10,000 in cash, or else he will not get work. This money is pooled as black money to be used for a luxurious life, holiday abroad and to buy liquor. What about those who do not pay tax? Is it not corruption? What about private schools taking money on the pretext of donations and other funds without issuing any bill and asking small children to collect unaccounted donations from their locality? What about advocates, doctors, and professionals taking a huge fee in cash, and not paying their full taxes? Most of the advocates including seniors take astronomical figures as fees. Corruption has to be attacked with systemic changes, using information technology, reducing discretionary powers, reducing personal interface with government servants, and such measures. Simultaneously, we should have a strong legal framework to quickly punish the guilty. And under no circumstance, can we ridicule the freedom struggle and our achievement of building institutions. We need to strengthen the institutions by electing capable people and educating voters. Dictatorial methods of agitation saying that this is the bill, pass it or else will not do. What Hazare has achieved is to awaken a large number of urban populace to the urgency of curbing corruption, and he should now give Parliament and the government time to come up with their solution and keep up the awareness campaign till the next election. He should contest the next election with his followers or force the political parties to adopt his solution in their manifesto and then canvass for them. (The writer's email id is ashishgupta.061990@gmail.com) Keywords: Anna Hazare, Lokpal Bill

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Comments:
We have also observed Ramdev to fast and also observed how govt has eradicated that. So dont think govt. bends so easily. Anna's fast is having much relevance as it is against the most common problem face by most common people so it gathered a huge support which made the govt bend. So dont worry if a fast is not having much significance will die its own death and it wont make an impact to the parliamental supremacy of democracy. And another thing, Democracy from very basic is by the people, for the people and of the people so it wont be a good idea to confine it under 60 yrs old parliamental constitution as it also need some evolution with time otherwise ill element will flourish as like mosquitoes in stagnent water. Such movement can ensure the flow of evolution of our democracy and can remove ill elements. I understand the difficulty of implementing a strict LokPal but this movement has created a huge awareness among the common people which i think itself a very big achievement. from: Ajoy Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 02:17 IST Who blackmailed the government into tabling the bill? One old man? You honestly think they give a rat's ass about one man dying? The simple truth of the matter is that we all 'blackmailed' OUR OWN duly elected representatives to do what WE want for a change. This is not 'unparliamentary' or 'undemocratic'. This is in fact a new and much more robust form of democracy, that refuses to let fat cat politician plunder at will after having won the ballot. Maybe now they will stop distributing sweets and playing holi when they win elections, and instead buckle up and try and figure out how to live on their meager MP salaries. Maybe now politics will not be perceived as a cash cow to milk at will. Maybe now we will get our next leaders of government from this anti-corruption movement! And maybe, just maybe, the Lokpal, sometime in the near future would be jobless and defunct. Pray how and why do you imagine that things can be worse than they are because of the Lokpal? from: Rajiv Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 02:37 IST I agree with some of the comments above but too much debate in an inefficient democracy which to date has not brought the required changes means that there will be uprising of voices by way of protest and stringent demands. from: ManmohanSingh Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 03:27 IST The last para of your post sums it all - Annaji has awakened the dormant indian populace.But i feel we should not attach any intrinsic meaning to the statements made by Anna because whatever stated by annaji was after giving sufficient opportunities to the persons concerned and also he is not a diplomat nor is he a politician.Why I support sri anna is at least he has given vent to the common man's feelings and i do not believe that this would lead to creation of bad precedent because we cannot take public opinion for granted. yes ofcourse we all at some stage are guilty of encouraging corruption but take the positives this agitation has paved way for creation of meaningful enactments..an enactment which is more proactive and result oriented.

from: Dinesh Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 03:36 IST You have given a list of corruption methods with a footnote saying it is unavoidable. yet developed countries do not have these problems. They have worked to eliminate them. German MNC's bribe. I know of them bribing DRDO, HMT, and every government organisation at all levels from politicians to the engineer signing the contract. If accounting and audit is made more stringent will they not be caught? Will government servants not be caught? Who suffer? Every innovation in scientific institutes suffers. Every weapon developed indigenously suffers as hardwork is given the go by. When India did not sign NPT their work was stalled in space technology for some banned items. People selling those items laughed and said - how come you cannot even produce this(indians work abroad there) - a small part or a small software program or some connecting interface. That means all investment in defense, nuclear industry,agriculture, every scientific endeavor is a big waste eaten by the corruption monster.So to compensate for the poor quality of work in defense industry we buy from abroad - paying higher price and getting kickbacks. That takes away money from poverty alleivation. Does it even make sense? Why is this madness in place? Somebody especially in the government must question. And Congress being in power for so long must really stop and ponder why they want to keep this mad status quo intact. Because it is system perfected by them - they take kickbacks - most of the funds are in the name of the Nehru- gandhi family in swiss banks - they use those funds to fight elections and stay in power. They might give the justification that they do not get influenced by the corporate lobby so they can help the poor and the minorities, they can say we are neutral in our policies as we do not have to depend on anyone for funding so non alignment as a strategy giving self respect to Indians is better preserved - but look at the cost - look at south Korea. from: meeta Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 03:51 IST Dear sir, I appreciate your logic that the method adopted by the Anna team is not correct.But,unless some one takes up the issue at this level,the Govt and the political parties are not at all interested in the bill. I understand that we have adopted democratic system but the elected representatives have forgotten their duty towards the people who elected them to solve their problems.In our daily life,for every matter, we face hurdles in the shape of corruption and the people have crossed the tolerence level.The recent scams,one after the other,one bigger than the other,involving high end political leaders,have finally prompted everybody to revolt and support the cause.Had the action by Anna and his team with the full support of the Nation and the world not been this severe,this Govt would not have acted atleast 'in principle' way. Even now,the people have to wait for full results. from: Ananda Rao Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 03:59 IST You don't get it. It is not the individuals that are responsible for corruption, it is the system. Just contesting the election and Anna Hazare becoming the Prime Minister will not change a thing. Dr. Singh is a fine enough and an honest person and he can't do a thing to stop the corruption. It is the system that has to be changed, new laws have to be drafted, and a danda (stick) has to be created for the errant politicians and the civil servants. from: Satpathy

Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 04:08 IST I haven't read through your entire article. However have a question to "What will happen if people start similar agitations seeking to get their demands passed as law within a given time?" What will happen if no one stands up?? from: Saurabh Gupta Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 05:06 IST Great Article. You said what I am have been thinking and saying to people. Unfortunately, no one comments on such articles but write bogus stuff on other articles that support Anna's moment. People complain that city streets are not clean but who is creating the garbage. Unless, people stop creating garbage on streets, the cleaners can't be held accountable. It is irony that the same Indian that creates garbage on the streets keeps garbage in the pocket once he/she lands in a foreign country. from: Manish Shah Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 05:40 IST Please do not spread such wrong message on print. Supremacy of parliament is OK but when people have realized that a major chunk of person moving and shaking the parliament are the epitome of corruption, these protests are needed. Kudos to Shri Anna Ji, we Indians have sensed the urgency and have got the prowess to bring forward the honest public demands to be the driver of parliamentary policies. Your justification that Kashmir issue could be a threat holds fake logic. People at large joined the movement as they could connect their day to day problems in this mass movement. DEMOCRACY is meant to uphold the voice of people of the nation not the fake supremacy of parliament where MPs consistently did not want to give away corrupt practices. from: Subha Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 05:41 IST There you go another (after Arundathi Roy,Mahesh Bhatt) arm chair pseudo-intellectuals from a microscopic minority trying to get seek attention from the people .. Request people like you to indulge in ACTION rather than resorting to mere lip-service. I am sure some people will share your views but my humble request to them is to for heavens sake move out of this deep slumber and DO SOMETHING CONCRETE and BE A CHANGE AGENT rather than being overly cynical. . I respect all diverse views but try something new Aashish, this is not going to fly . I am afraid you will not find any takers. from: Ranjit Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 07:26 IST When someone starts doing good things for the country, people like you discourage them by posting such useless thoughts and stupid comments. So just one question for you Mr Ashish Gupta, What is YOUR way of effectively fighting corruption? And how quick good results will it yield? from: Karan Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 07:32 IST

Mr. Ashish, I really dont care why you dont support Annaji. At least we have some hope now. IF the system happens to be too monstrous, we the citizens of india should modify it as the time goes by...I sincerely thank from bottom of my heart to Annaji for making this to happen. from: Muthushiv Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 08:28 IST You are wrong on most points. When rulers are corrupt, the system is corrupt, and when the system is corrupt, constitutional means are not enough. What Annaji is doing is the only thing that people could do. The people elect leaders because they all say the "right" things during election campaigns. But once they are elected, they all become corrupt because that's the way the system is.Once in a while, popular revolutions are good to cleanse the system. More power to Annaji! from: Sam Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 08:35 IST While many people are going to disagree with you, I for one fully support your stance. You have expressed my very own views. Here I would only like to quote one adage, "To change the system, be the system first." I urge the civil society members, if you really want to reduce corruption, please contest the elections. I will certainly vote for you!!! from: Gaurang Torvekar Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 08:38 IST This method is not new...at least 4 leaders went on with fast in recent times in a.p. With little success...stop acting like Anna has created a new scary weapon and you are worried... He was successful because of the legitimacy of issue, his resolve and the universal concern for the issue. from: Manish Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 09:02 IST Is 43 years not enough. During this period, government after government has been discussing and then dumping the Lokpal bill. It is very easy to say contest elections. Don't you know Mr Gupta how elections are won in India. I tell you the formula if you not already know it.Money and muscle power are the two main ingredients of this formula. No body can win an election in India without these.Our dear PM and Mr. Mani Shankar Iyer are two shining examples.That Mr. Iyer could win it once is an aberration,a miracle and miracles do not take place too often. from: n.r.singh Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 09:28 IST "Corruption has to be attacked with systemic changes, using information technology, reducing discretionary powers, reducing personal interface with government servants, and such measures". I would like to add here - In today's Hindu on RTI (RTI Act more potent than LOKPAL) That is it. Transparency will clean the society. Secrets has no place in modern world, yet,

unfortunately, Secret rules. Few take it as a mission to bring out the truth. That is why I salute THE HINDU for publishing WIKILEAKS! Another measure that can help is to break the strangle hold Multinationals and Indian Business has on the establishment of Armed forces, Bureaucracy, and politicians, both in power and even some out of power to get them toe their line. They use all means, money, flattery, brainwashing, other enticements, placement in IMF etc. The corruption by petty government officials hardly matter. from: P P Rajagopalan Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 09:33 IST People are not that fools to start similar agitations seeking to get their demands passed as law within a given time. Corruption, education, electoral reforms, health care are certain areas that concern the people. They want accountability by the politician. The democratic set up sounds incorrect. Every democratic body has political interference. Corrupt politicians are allowed to make laws to govern the nation. Parliament is said to be supreme. Politicians should not be given the right to make laws. Laws should be made by eminent personalities. If the Lok pal does not stop corruption as contended by the author, it is a test for democracy and the people. from: Sravana Ramachandran Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 09:37 IST The premise of your article itself is incorrect. The parliamentary system is completely inefficient and broken which would never pass any laws that are meaningful or will hurt the beneficiaries of corruption in this case. This shows the frustration of people of India with crippled democracy which is not representative of peoples demands or aspirations. I would go as far to compare it with the Arab spring where Indian people have risen in an appreciably peaceful way to reform the country. Would this be a indication of how future laws will be created maybe not unless the issue gathers the support of nation as did in this case. Political reform must happen in this broken state and hopefully we will see new progressive leaders in India as we have seen in the private sector. All is not lost. Growing economic power will make people want to achieve better lifestyle for themselves and their coming generations. from: Santosh Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 10:50 IST Every election we select or they made it to select by themselves. Why until now nothing happend. One thing you forget most of the present leaders plan to earn and why they did not implemet lokpal for the last 30yrs and people like you didnot raise the issue. As of now common man can not live and no results came out for the people who has involved in such crimes at the most they resign and take the public money. In the next election if we didnot select any candidate and how we will form government. I hope at least the corrupted people leaders will slowly quit or may be a chance that they will find another business as not public service. from: Justin Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 11:17 IST Hey no offense but I do not agree with this. When you are talking about electing a good new eligible candidate that is good and reasonable but to bear the pain till the election and right

canvassing is done is waste of time. So, its not throwing the baby out of water but instead its saving the baby from hot water by taking her out. from: Kalpana Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 11:40 IST 1)While I also feel that such a time deadline was not proper, but why not a 'Janlokpal bill' be adopted? It has been under back burner for many years just because it will snatch the "Right to corruption" of the powerful people. many of these fight election, as an investment, and earn in majestic figures for the hansome return return. It is their business. Lots of money is swallowed in the name of transfers of officials and their cancellations! The scene is such that an ordinary man cannot think of fighting election! It's a multi crore investment now. (2) Sharad Yadav, who was telling in parliament yestaerday that Sansad is supreme and it has sent A. Raja and likes to prison, come on, they few were sheer unlucky! He himself has earned millions in railway recruitment while he was railway minister. They yell that parliament is supreme, just because they are safe being MP's. (3) Yes, parliament can be respected but not these shameless politians, who won due to money power. from: Tahmina Khan Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 11:52 IST Well balanced article. The writer has tried to grab the core of the problem. It is rightly pointed out that what about those who force a government officer to take bribe otherwise threaten to be killed. from: Moin Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 12:00 IST I completely agree with Author's view that corruption in the system is somewhere a reflection of our society's moral values. And yes just building an institution won't be enough to solve corruption. I also agree that we don't need to worship Anna Hazare as a hero and his methods and force govt to accept his version of bill by a timeline. But it is equally important to at least take steps in the right direction. Given the tardy speed at which govt was trying to introduce Lokpal bill, a strong action from civil society was imperative. Let's not forget RTI Act was also just a bill but it has opened avenues for people to usher transparency in govt departments like never before. Being vigilant and politically aware is a small price people would always have to pay for democracy. from: Richa Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 12:27 IST I cannot but agree to each and every word you have written. We take great pride in calling ourselves the largest democracy of the world - however, we ourselves did not adhere to constitutional means in this Jan Lokpal bill episode. There are also high chances that in near future other issues would be fought for in similar fashion - what will be left of our constitutional framework in that case ? It is also sad that the 24X7 media coverage has hyped the matter so such an astronomically high proportion. Wish Irom Sharmila had received a fair amount of coverage for her struggle as well. from: Indira Mukherjee

Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 12:47 IST Fantastic article Mr. Gupta, I agree to all your points. I have supported all the people's revolution right from Tahrir Square to Jantar Mantar but Anna and his aides lost me and my support at Ramlila Maidan. It is one thing to ask, nay demand attention, for your cause and a totally different thing to destroy the credibility and humiliate the elected representatives to 1.2billion people. The arm-twisting and brinkmanship tactics are the worst precedent set for a diverse and democratic country like ours. Equally, no, far worse than these tactics were coy surrender of Parliament. We, India are not just diverse in our language, culture, traditions etc but also strongly divergent in our views- political, economic or governance. I will be least surprised if we have series of such events happening regularly. It will not be long before the chickens will come home to roost. from: Brijesh Jana Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 13:02 IST You are wrong. Anna Hazare took this measure because of the enormity of the loss due to corruption and blatant misuse of power. You should also be aware why people are supporting this movement and government caved in. Why did the government cave in? If what they were doing is right and what Anna is doing is wrong, why did they have to change? Now imagine A.Raja or Suresh Kalmadi going on fast saying they are innocent and the charges have to be dropped! (I'm not saying they are guilty. They are innocent until proven guilty.) Do you think they would get the support and government would cave in? Sure, we elect the representatives, but you should remember that our system is made up in such a way that elected parties gain enormous power and it becomes next to impossible to challenge them. Despite the exploding population the number of representative remain the same! Except for nominal welfare systems founded after independence, we are essentially a corrupt capitalist state! from: Senthil Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 13:05 IST I agree to many of the points you have raised in the article like lack of morality among the public is the cause for the wide spread of the corruption. We need to reflect upon this and strengthen the education system where the moral and ethical values should be imparted to the students in a rightful manner. But I don't agree that the people should not sit and do the peaceful dharna. You say that some vested interest elements may raise some unethical demands by the means of this fast unto death dharnas. But do you really think that the Indian public is so gullible that they would easily fall for that kind of improper demands. Corruption is the boiling issue. So many People came spontaneously and supported the cause. Dictating is wrong. I too agree upon that. But the citizens' right to peaceful demonstration cannot be taken away from them. Otherwise the pressure will build up and will explode into the civil war. So right to protest is very much necessary . from: Vasanth Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 13:07 IST

please clarify which provision in Lokpal is against parliamentary democracy and Indian constitution. When you write something, there should be some clarity. You are saying that you are against corruption and believe that voting will solve the problem. But you did not answer "why India failed to vote and elect politicians/party for last 60 years who can prepare a strong anti-corruption law?". and why Indians were witnessing increase in corruption? from: Jobin Augustine Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 13:36 IST It is just like telling the women tolerate the attrocities of her husband as ur now married and it is ur fate to suffer till end of life. It is better to get divorced and start a new life rather than tolerating undeserving person tru-out the life. Belieiving in constn is gud thing but it is man made and not divine to be flawless. Ur opinion conveys, once the elected person fails to deliver the responsibility and then wait for next 5 years to remove him and wait for next 5 years with an expectation that other will do it. LP is a tool enabling to take remedial action against during his tenure itself eg. Karnataka. After 5 yrs as ppl memory may faint he may come back with some emotional issues . He is using a democratic methd to express his opinion and which is gaining ppl supp . His effort will only solve prob from outer side but to eradicate it is we all needs to vote and counter against corrupt practices which we follow and encourage . Let be practical rather than to be too ideal from: krishnan Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 14:22 IST Ashish Simple Just like an honest person will not support a corrupt person and a Corrupt person will never support any anti corruption person! What Freedom are you talking about? I am sure you are rich, powerful and well connected to the govt machinery, just go to any office and stand in a queue to get your work done, like any common man...I bet your blood would start boiling even before your turn comes up in the queue. you have written,"If Parliament is not reflecting and acting as per the interest of voters, we need to elect ....We cannot destroy the Parliamentary system, just as we cannot destroy the judiciary, the rule of law, the bureaucracy and a free press." So it is OK for them to destroy the country and it is not right for Anna to fight it, We can not wait as we have already waited 69 years. And Don't worry NO ONE WOULD TURN UP IF YOU STARTED ANSHAN or if Sonia or PM MMS started the Anshan! we have won the second freedom struggle! from: Anna Hazare Supporter Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 14:25 IST sir, it is true that the method adopted by anna is not flawless, but i would like to know what else a person (aam admi) can do to make the higher minds sitting in parliament realize that a strong law has to be made against corruption??? what anna tried is really admirable .... gandhiji fought Britishers , anna is fighting corruption which is harming us more than what britishers did years ago.... it is true that one who can change corruption is the one himself ,but if the whole system is corrupt u have very less chances to do that....due to anna and aam admis' upsurge at least we have got a bill against corruption .it is not good on ones' part to suggest faults with others without providing the alternative way........ from: vivek Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 14:34 IST

Dear Sir, You have rightly said what i have been saying. You are right. These groups are behaving as if corruption is a sudden occurance.Ultimately no body should be above the parliament and lokpal or Janlokpal should be accountable to someone. from: NArayanan Iyer Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 14:37 IST Anna's Method of protest is fully justified in the present context for the following reasons: We have unfortunately come to a pass where it is a hard reality that majority of our MPs have lost public credibility due to corruption in high offices. This loss of credibility has led us to a situation where common people came out in support of Anna. For example if our Prime Minister says that for sake of coalition compulsion, loot by Rajas and Kalmadi types happened it is most unfortunate for all of us. The methodology adopted by Anna to pressurize government is quite valid for that reason. We have been listening to thousands of intellectual people in this country talking and talking every day on different shows and public functions but tell me Sir, what change they brought into this system? Anna on the other hand demonstrated words and action both. If the politicians had maintained the decorum of Parliament and not resorted to loot, the Anna would not be on the scene at all. from: Vijay Raina Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 14:42 IST There is no 'FAST' road to efficient and virtuous government. Especially when the source of all corruption, i.e. the most unequal society on the planet. A little more then 20 families control the vast majority of the wealth of the nation. Corruption is Capitalism and Capitalism is corruption. The illusion of a middle class based democracy is rapidly being dismantled everywhere on the planet in the absence of any threat by the working class. It was only fear of the Soviet Union that forced the Capitalists to allow a middle class in the first place. from: Richard Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 14:42 IST once the whole country is supporting the ANNA JI,if you dont support his efforts it hardly matters. from: m.janardhan rao Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 15:01 IST I don't understand why we are trying to find faults and advocating technically correct solutions. Getting attention and ensuring public participation have never come with great academic arguments. On the field, common men need leaders who will communicate to them of their noble intentions, clear, time bound and simple objectives. An imperfect yet collective public emotion is anytime stronger than perfect strategies and tactics. from: Sreejith Narendran Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 15:16 IST Very nice article. from: Sumit

Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 15:42 IST I support the points put, may be the modus operandi to pass the bill was not correct, BUT we should also not forget the NUMEROUS corruption cases which wants justice since long. As correctly highlighted the Women's bill is pending since years, the same would have been the condition of this Lokpall Bill. JUSTICE DELAYED IS JUSTICE DENIED. from: Suhash Chakraborty Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 15:51 IST Anna have adopted a plan which may be undemocratic, Jan lokpal may not eradicate corruption completely, but 'SOMETHING IS BETTER THAN NOTHING!!!!' from: Practical Thinker Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 16:42 IST It was Gandhi himself who had said that "Civil Obedience become a sacred duty when the system become lawless" - we have seen how the Parliament, and the successive governments at the Centre have responded to the scourge of corruption - and if someone has to blackmail them for doing something good - I am fully in agreement. After all, words, systems, and intellectual speculations was what we had all these years from all quarters - and nothing was achieved. And now, we had one sincere activist, with no awards, no recognition - and he has brought a change. What's wrong with that? People are complaining that he has set a dangerous precedent - indeed - the powers-to-be need to be aware that now people cannot be taken for granted. from: Sagar Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 17:01 IST Well said. Hats off to you. I am one amoung you who have the same thoughts and feelings. I feel great when Anna fight against corruption and youngsters join hands, but he expects someone else to stop the corruption. why ? Is it not possible for Team of youth who gathered around Anna can stand in election to change our India. The problem starts when we try to ask some one to stop. I prefer the first WE need to stop corruption, from traffic signals to land we buy. How many of us provide the exact of money we spend to buy, how many of us gave money to traffic police and the list goes on. I feel changes should be done for future not for the present black money we have. It should educate the people not to corrupt / bribe. Ultimately this is what i have seen in our country THOSE WHO HAVE MONEY GIVE BRIBE / CORRUPT BUT THOSE WHO NEED MONEY GET THE BRIBE/FIGHT AGAINST IT. Let India change, let the youngsters grow and rule the country with knowledge and do good to all people. from: Terence Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 17:20 IST What Anna Hazare thought and did is apt for the current situation. Even after so much of technology, transparency still corruption exists. We need fast track court to trial and book the culprit. people would not support similar act by any individual unless there is a common cause. So the fear of the write is not exists.

from: Nagesh Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 17:53 IST Superb article sir,i like it at the fullest.This is what i thought from the begining.One most important repurcussion of these movement is the awareness that it has created about the corruption.Now the time has come that we should take the issue of corruption.And should weed out the corruption from whatever possible means and effort.Our collective and sensible action will bring the change. from: Nurul Arfin Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 18:04 IST Anna Hazare's agitation was not that of few thousand people as my friend Mr.Gupta observed.It is an agitation joined and supported by lakhs of people.It was not only on Ramlila Maidan,but was at thousands of places in different parts of our country. The question of supremacy of parliament is not to be disturbed.The Janlokpal bill and its contents were the demands of Anna.Anna does not want to enact the bill himself surpassing the democratic process. from: Rajesh Shah Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 18:38 IST Civil Society is the path of the citizenry to force parliament to address a much needed issue. It appears that you rather abhor democracy in action. How can any person argue that a Constitution or Parliament is more valid than the unified voice of the electorate. from: iyamwutiam Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 18:56 IST To all the folks that are asking Anna to contest an election or are belittling his achievement: Social activism is important in both forms - to give back to your land which btw Anna has done AND to constantly evaluate the morality and principles of our community. As a citizenry we have compromised on what is a conscionable act, and have become immune to the dirt that is contemporary Indian politics. Anna Hazare is a social activist who is asking for more responsibility in this government. from: jSharma Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 19:21 IST If there is one thing that can clean the mess in governance, it is political accountability, which unfortunately is not working with 5 year elections. Politicians are shrewd enough to earn illegal money without being detected by law. A strong lokpal can instill a fear of punishment in political leaders and it will trickle down into the entire system. The existing democratic system can get some more teeth with a lokpal. As you fear no one can blackmail the govt with their demands, in this case the govt came to its knees only after the widespread public support; the information is gathered by govt intelligence rather than from TV channel coverage. And I dont think bribes are given and taken in mutual understanding.

When a step is made in the right direction, please support it; dont voice out illogical counter opinions right from the start. It will not solve any problems. from: Srinivas RS Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 20:30 IST Looking at the complete gameplan, Anna Hazare's image is used by his teammates to get their work done. Once some1 becomes lokapal/lokayuta, he will have all the powers that a police officers, they can rule the state n central govt, they can do transfers n stop transfers of any officers, they will make rules n regulations and innocent citizens has to follow it, it is such a Sick mentality, they are killing the whole purpose of democracy. What is the guarantee the lokayukta/member of lokpal will not indulge in mal-practices. from: Sandweep Debratha Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 20:52 IST Excellent points Mr.Gupta but pray tell us what is the constitutional means of making ourselves heard? The Lokpal bill, to cite just one example, has been in the "constitutional machinery" for a while now. If our elected representatives do not represent us in parliament, making ourselves heard in this fashion is preferable to burning buses, wouldn't you agree? Why would one resort to 'unconstitutional' means to make themselves heard? It is only when the system in place to address grievances does not work or there isn't a system in the first place. I might sound naive here but if we had a fair mechanism to address concerns about the meterman asking for a bribe or the property registration office asking for a bribe, wouldnt you pick up the phone rather than burn buses or god forbid - go on a hunger strike! I know I would rather pick up the phone. from: R Gonda Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 21:06 IST Excellent! Whatever I thought in mind, you simply gathered and published Mr. Ashish Gupta. Kudos! Added more, the 'so called supporters' including the giants in the team, how many of them not paid corruption for their works. Say buying of land, get into traffic signal, cinema ticket (though its not government included, corruption is corruption is right?), school admission, passport, ration, etc. etc. the list is unlimited. We are the reasons for the corruptions and until and unless we change ourselves, nobody can eradicate corruption. no bill change the corruption. This generation is very much sensitive. He got that pulse successfully won in that. Frankly saying most of the people arrived at Ramlila Maidan just to show their faces in Television. 'Hey did you see me yaar in TV?' I hope many of you agree with this dear supporters! There are many ways to bring and pass the bill but not just pressure the Govt and fix the deadline is not the perfect way Mr. Anna from: M Selvakumar Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 23:26 IST

Even I didn't support Mr. Hazare... it's only after his arrest and the Tihar incident that shut the case in favour of the government. In fact, I would love to see the Indian public give their politicians a big lesson on who's boss and what democracy really is. I wish they introduce bills based on meritocracy. For people who shout and yell when one speak in whichever sabha, citing 'mobocracy' as a side to this movement is rather hysterical if you ask me! If these guys cannot even tolerate their fellow parliamentarians speak, we common public stand no chance at all! Go Mr. Hazare, I hope something good emerges from this. I remember watching a video on Youtube where they threw mics and debri at each other in Lok Sabha talk about denigrating the standing of the parliament - how many were arrested for that again? None. from: Raj Posted on: Aug 28, 2011 at 23:45 IST People who wear a Gandhi cap cannot be Gandhi at all...And the whole drama happened in Ram lila maidan was complete plot of BJP,RSS, and Bajrangi as the funds were covered by them. from: nazeer Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 00:03 IST you have triggered my anger when I read the line "Remember that a large part of bribe-givers are happy"... My anger is coming out of my eyes as tears... take tatkal train ticket booking for example (50% of the ticket is only available through tatkal)? Do you know what it takes a middle class Indian parent to get school admission for their child?? When bureaucrats create complex system what do you expect an ordinary citizen to do??? from: Kalyan Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 00:59 IST I agree with a lot of points mentioned by you. Anna Hazare's protest was successful because people were emotionally driven. I am sure that most of the people wouldn't have been even aware of what a Lokpal Bill is and how would it reduce the corruption, when they supported Anna. I too seriously doubt that a bill would reduce corruption in India. from: Ajay Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 01:46 IST I have read many articles on jan lok pal bill. Writers, who disagree with Anna's method of forcing the government to pass the bill, give a very sugar coated argument to support his/her stand. I want to ask these writers about the ways that Anna should have adopted to deal with this menace of corruption, if he would have not resorted to his present stance. I think none of the writers have produced an alternative to present method, which Anna adopted. from: Ankit Aarwal Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 02:55 IST First of all sir, this is not a movement to get any sort of personal benefits to Anna. That is a non-selfish "satyagraha" for the nation. And it was not to destroy the constitutional right of

parliament. Anna respected parliament and he says that the people's demands should be discussed in parliament and get them passed immediately. Let me ask you one thing. If the MPs can pass their salary hike bill within few hours, then why can't they pass or at least discuss the people's conditions? from: jacob Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 03:57 IST What Ashish is trying tell us is same thing as our ruling party is telling us. Kapil Sibbal was also telling us the same thing. These people don't understand frustration of common man. These people don't have any alternative for failure of our democracy. from: Raj Patil Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 05:57 IST Best article boss, u did say the truth. I am in favor of you, i do have the same thoughts. And the people above there who gave the comments against the article, first try to understand what is corruption..? and what is non-violence..? and then comment. And read the non-violence movement of Mahatma Gandhi and try to understand what it means, not like now a days to sit on fast and give the timing to government that we will end the fast if you listen us. And its not a game to sit on fast and break it and again sit on fast and again break it, Are they playing a child's game or what..?? As child goes to play and when he feel hungry he have his food and again go for a play. This is a democratic country and one of the famous country in the world which have great culture and traditions, even the foreigners come and try to practice and understand our culture. Don't give a bad impression on our country by doing all this silly things like small children, think over it again... from: Amitkumar Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 06:48 IST To believe in Anna or not to believe is what we debate, but if we introspect both belief system converges to the same idea. If someone believes in democracy it is because not everyone is like ANNA, how can we let go democracy that holds us we are all equal (at least during election) and others who believe in ANNA wants INDIA TO BE ANNA. So the real question that lies before us is What it takes to be ANNA. I would also like to think about ANNAs statement WE have won half the BATTLE, Anna is an honest man but just supporting him and waving the flag does not mean we are someone separate from CORRUPTION. Probably ANNA has won the battle against corruption, but others please dont separate yourself or think that politicians alone are corrupt. We are corrupt, ANNA has helped us identify our true colors, lets change and make a difference (Hopefully). from: Vasanth Robin Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 09:34 IST If people start similar agitations seeking to get their demands passed as law within a given time and if their demand is just they SHOULD and MUST get support from all of us and getting their demand done is their RIGHT. There can be many excuses why it can not be done but there is No reason why it can not be done. What is happening was a long time due and we

government should be thankful to her citizens that it happened within peaceful and democratic environment. from: Santosh Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 11:00 IST I also agree with that.The positive side of this movement is the "Awareness of people".But we have to keep in mind that,that was not the goal of team anna.They try to bring the "Jan Lokapal" within August 30.I support Team Anna for what they have done before.But here in Ramalila it was different.Their demands was unfair. from: Bibin sunny Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 11:06 IST Like a wise man once said, there are no perfect people or means, there are just perfect intentions. from: Saurabh Jha Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 11:10 IST I am sure who do not agree with the approach Anna Hazare took would not have faced much of so called "bribing" factor in their life. End of the day, he is fighting for you and me who wants to lead a life that other fellow Indian citizens does in foreign countries. We have lived a life so far with so much sacrifice but why not support the hardest way for nation's goodness. I am not sure if you understood why one person like Anna hazare who had led couple of villages has to take such a route. Government thinks what does this person can do. Only question I pose to those who do not agree to Anna's approach is "Do you have any other way around that can get the Government to LISTEN to citizens of India?" from: Vinoth Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 11:26 IST It has become fashinable to be different,criticize the movement.Pray tell us what's the method to be adopted if the Parliamentarians don't listen to the voice of the people.Yes,in a democracy the VOICE of the people is Supreme,the constitution is supreme.Agreed, creation of Lokpal will not end the monster of corruption, but at least a start has to be made somewhere. This will act as a deterrant. To eradicate completely, the moral fabric of the people has to be changed. One has to give more importance to the moral values,the traditional family values & not run after economic aspirations only. Yes,at an individual level one should try not to give/take bribe,then only we can make a Corruption free society. from: deepee Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 11:35 IST It's not that,fasting can be used as a weapon to impose your view on government.It is the gravity in the cause,which the Anna's fight against corruption has in it.Anna is one among those,who are making people more proactive and letting them rouse to fight against the issues which are hindrance in the path for the development of our country.If corruption is handled and controlled in a very sagacious manner then India will become a global power directly in proportion to its population in all respects like education,industry etc.Also, if govt is also

concerned in eradicating corruption then it would not have delayed in getting the names of account holders of Swiss banks, as the Germany govt did, and would have booked those who are found guilty.Eventually nothing happened so! from: apra Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 11:39 IST "What will happen if people start similar agitations seeking to get their demands passed as law within a given time?" Can you try to unite all the people of India for any agitation? let us see how many come with you. If majority of people come, then its not an agitation its a movement. Most of our people are bit selfish, they will participate only if they are affected. Every India 99% is affected by corruption. I bet, no other issue will get this kind of support in India. from: Rupa Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 11:42 IST I completely agree with you..."To change the system , you have to be a part of it and just being a part of it is not enough but you have to reach the top to change it." What Anna Hazare doing is dictatorship and his methodology is completely childish,unconstitutional and undemocratic and strongly coercive though his intentions are against the corruption menace. You can not bypass constitution as gives us ample opportunity to discuss,debate,advocate your views. And no one has ever stopped them to stand in elections since 42 yrs..people ll stand for u if ur intentions r pure, u can't blame that it just requires money n muscle. Anna is ill advised and he is being misused and they r just using the mollified anti corruption sentiment of people...they say they represent the country,I don't believe that...I support the cause but I don't support the methodology...that'll set a wrong trend... from: dr manoj waghmare Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 11:42 IST So many comments saying "WE Indians", "WE have done", "We have won" etc. Who is this WE? Am I not part of this WE? One man and a group of followers doesn't represent the voice of this country. I have reservations against the Jan Lopal Bill proposed by Anna Hazara. Kudos to the author. I completely agree with his views. A honourable end doesnt justify inhonourable means. Let all of us work to root out corruption. Let us not leave it in the hands of a society or a person. from: Alen Aloysius Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 11:55 IST With all due respect, the constitution that you are referring to here itself is outdated. It was framed by the committee led by Dr. B.R Ambedkar during the 1950's, keeping in mind the status of British-trained, mainly agriculture dependent India. Now, there is revolution in every field and I personally feel that the constitution needs a revision. from: Praveen S

Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 11:59 IST For over 42 years such bills were analyzed by eight Standing Committees. The draft Jan Lok Pal Bill was seen by five Ministers. subsequently the Government comes out with a bill which is categorically rejected as the weakest bill by one and all. Under these circumstances can the protest initiated by Anna Ji and supported by millions of Indian all over the world not be considered as the highly probable solution finder? from: RNR Krishnan Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 12:03 IST Sir I disagree with you on four points. First, Anna's Campaign against corruption has not weakened our democracy or democratic institutions. In a democracy public is supreme, then comes parliament and after that ministers MPs etc. Team Anna has not forced government to pass their bill in the parliament, they only wanted it to be presented and discussed in it. Secondly, fight against corruption is the voice and aspiration of educated youth residing in all corners of India and not just few thousand of people standing on Ramlila ground. Thirdly, though there is difference in time and space between Gandhi's freedom struggle movement and this movement but their common aim is welfare of people and the state. Beside voice of youth, observed non violence and inspirational leadership are other common grounds. And fourthly, though there are many problems at present and no system is foolproof but somewhere a start has to be made. Its good that team Anna and Government has made it together. from: meeta bisht Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 12:07 IST Glad to see such rare articles and author who is not carried away by the mood of the moment. And what worries me more than the attitude of Anna and his advisors, is that their attitude of intolerance of other view points has spread to those who support them. Just go through the responses to Ashish Gupta's article and you can see the intolerance and hence the tendency to malign anyone who has a contrary view [who is dubbed a stooge of Congress]. The majority of us Indians including those showing all those anti-corruption anger will take or give bribe when it comes to their individual cases. But we say we hate corruption. I pray that corruption is at least curbed; but I seriously doubt. When we don't hang those behind the murder of an ex-PM and when a terrorist in the Mumbai attack is still there, when the chief of Indian army during the Golden temple operation is murdered [I don't know what happened to the culprits] how can we punish a 'poor' village officer who takes few rupees? from: Geroge Varghese Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 12:26 IST Nice article sir, indeed you should have gone to Arundhati Roy to use few more beautiful words, then it would have been a better article. from: Raju Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 12:30 IST What Team Anna resorted to during agitation was nothing but literally blackmailing the GOI,which is a total disregard for our constitution. Forcing GOI to 'My way or highway' was

uncalled for, which has set a wrong precedent for the people, even if it is for a greater cause. Having said that, Constitution enables you to fight the system from within the system, provided you don't have malice intentions, which is the case for most of the politicians. They have been flexing their money and muscle in promoting corruption, which has been growing like obnoxious weed. Again, Lokpal bill might turn out to be just another law, pending civil and social reforms in the governance methods and reducing discreatonry powers, as pointed out by the author.Bringing judiciary reforms and speeding up impending cases in judiciary, will go a long way in eradicating corruption. from: Shishir Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 12:49 IST Everyone says Parliament is supreme and that only the elected representatives have the unlimited(?) powers. Is it? let us not forget that the Constitution of India is more supreme. The preamble in the Constitution starts with, : "We the people of India ....". Why not we see the positive side of the 12 day movement. For the first time, Indians have shown that people can force, using absolutely NON-VIOLENT methods, the government and the elected members to listen to their voices. You should appreciate the discipline and the tolerance of the thousands of people standing by Annaji, braving rain and sun. from: Vijayaraghavan Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 12:52 IST Great Article. You said what I am have been thinking and saying to people. Unfortunately, no one comments on such articles but write bogus stuff on other articles that support Anna's movement. People complain that city streets are not clean but who is creating the garbage. Unless, people stop creating garbage on streets, the cleaners can't be held accountable. It is irony that the same Indian that creates garbage on the streets keeps garbage in the pocket once he/she lands in a foreign country. from: Sharad Jaikar Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 13:14 IST It's not something new which Anna Hazare has proposed. It's 40 year old bill , which was left out without considering .Anna just reopened it for people's help. And as everyone knows this alone doesn't stop corruption. Each of us is part of this corruption in small or large scale. So its us we have to change from: Coorg Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 14:07 IST The manner in which Anna Hazare bends the government is very unfortunate to see. I personally feel that the success of Anna movement totally depended on the electronic media. Electronic media seems to be biased; they have not objectively reported the things,due to this reliability of electronic media goes down. This all movement of Anna Hazare was emotional some times it looks irrational too. We must not underestimate our Constitution which was written by very eminent persons like DR B.R.Ambedkar. from: Milind kashid Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 14:19 IST

Today so many people die in our country every day, do you really think one more would have really affected anyone of us? I don't feel so. Anna has done something which will help nation building, will help Indians rise above corruption. I believe in output and he has done it. Nobody was able to do it till now. If his method was incorrrect, why was he supported all over the country? Even in corporate world, you have to twist and turn your actions. Nothing is 100% correct. Important is you don't affect anyone negatively and result is positive.That's what Anna has done for India. from: shruti Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 16:28 IST Dear Manish, I can't understand your point. You mean to say that the members of the Team Anna should corrupt themselves by becoming politicans to understand what a politician goes through?? from: Nikhil Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 16:40 IST This is really not correct. I totally disagree with this article. Whatever Anna has done, it was the need of the hour. To straighten a wire which is bent on left side, you bend it on right. But it does not mean that your intention is to bend it towards right. And its not about few thousand people at Ramlila maidan, the whole country has awaken. I am totally in support of Anna. from: Parveen Kumar Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 17:45 IST True in a lot of ways. If the democracy is not functioning, it should not be replaced by oligarchy. Anna is Anna, and India, is India. from: Chandra Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 19:07 IST Sir, It is very sad that unlike Anna you never ever given concrete answer to fight corruption. No matter how absurd it is to imagine Lokpal bill fighting corruption. At least it is something we Indians can work upon. Sorry but your point of view is nothing but trying defame Anna and his struggle. I guess you better think twice next time to put something in paper. from: Rajeev Vashista Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 19:42 IST Well, I somewhat aggree with the author but the view point he is presenting doesn't work in real scenario .. it is not that Anna Hazare has gone to fast without any talks with govt. He tried a lot to convince govt abt the bill and he is right with his points. So govt would have given a shot to his suggestion.. but it didnt do nothing. In the end that was the only way to get the bill passed..and Kashmir issue and Lokpal Bill are way different. from: Bhuvnesh Garg

Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 20:18 IST You are now a slave of rules and frameworks unless you get behind the context and intent behind those rules, then validate current movement. Then you will realize how it tremendously improves the principle behind democracy against the current crippled system. from: Ankush Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 22:12 IST Many many 'democratic' societies have experienced tumultuous change as a result of social movements and people not working within the system because the system didn't work for them, but instead protesting it. When a democracy is not working for the people, it isn't serving its function as a democracy. I don't see the author's argument of "if Anna Hazare can do this, people can do the same thing to demand all sorts of other things and it won't be accomplished through democratic government" as completely valid, because it's not just Anna Hazare. It's all the people who support him, and only a cause with enough popular support and importance is going to get to that point. And if a cause gets to that point, it deserves governmental response. The response Hazare seems to be demanding is to get that bill passed, and getting a bill passed is a democratic process. The people pressuring their legislative representatives to pass something is how every democracy works. from: Neethi Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 22:47 IST The author points out that the bill doesn't address everything about the corruption issue, which is true, but all that means is that there needs to be more reform - not that the imperfect reform shouldn't happen. So really, you can compare Hazare's methods to those of any other movement pushing for change in a democratically governed society - from the Tea Party to the women's suffrage movement. You're going to get this in any democracy. All it is is evidence that India's democracy is alive and vibrant. from: Neethi Posted on: Aug 29, 2011 at 22:47 IST "What will happen if people start similar agitations seeking to get their demands passed as law within a given time?" I ask why should people resort to such agitation if the legislators do their job with conscience. The pity in our so called democratic system is that it is not democratic in the true sense. It turns into autocracy by the elected once the elections are over. Legislators get elected with the support of a meager percentage of votes cast leave alone the total votes of a constituency. Once elected the legislators distance themselves from the electorate and treat them with contempt. Many of them do not voice any opinion in the House; they do not consult those who elected them if not all the electorates of the constituency. Most of them voice the opinion of their leaders with loyalty with aim to get 'ticket' for next election. Thus the present system of the so-called democracy is a farce. Millions of people protested over 12 days. It is movement not protest. from: RNR Krishnan Posted on: Aug 30, 2011 at 08:48 IST

I am completely with you Ashish. I have complete faith in my constitution. I truly believe in the system set up by the authors of constitutions. Yes corruption needs to be eliminated. But, this bill does not guarantee that. Why not try to empower the existing laws against corruption? How can we, being a democratic nation, instill such huge powers in the hands of a single institution, Lok Pal and what if the members of this institutions have some other selfish personal intentions? What are we putting at stake here? from: Akanksha Posted on: Aug 30, 2011 at 09:03 IST Agitation was good. Response was good. Reaction from parliamentarians was good. All this is healthy democracy. Fixing dates for results, dictating the end-result, painting all politicians with same brush are bad. Despite differences mutual respect and self respect (INDIAN)is expected. A spit on to the sky is sure to fall back on one who spat. from: Padma Posted on: Aug 30, 2011 at 09:37 IST I support Anna Ji. Do you know the value of property(Land or Home)? It is going in Crores but the register values are moving in Lakhs. Property owner asks for Half Cash and Half Black Money. Where does these Black money go? From where they came from. Anna is fighting to stop these. He is fighting for us. He is leading us in the right path to say. He speaks the words from every INDIANS. If you are not supporting his methodoligies then suggest a better way. Please dont hurt the one who try to do something good for Nation.I am proud of INDIA and I am proud of ANNA who awaked the Nation. from: Aravind Posted on: Aug 30, 2011 at 14:08 IST An excellent article Ashish. I think I emailed you as well and shared it immediately on Facebook - the very reason being consolidation of all my thoughts and put as words and compiled as a wonderful article. Thanks for writing such an article.Indeed the very reasons I couldn't support Anna Ji are; 1. I myself have bribed (ofcourse out of demand not by will) for getting my passport, driving license, not sure of the way my house registration, and several times to the cops at the signals. Its all with this guilt realized the problem is in me more than the Govt / their officials. 2. I was never able to accept the "demand of Team Anna" over the supremacy of parliament and it's democracy. 3. I am sure most of the supporters wouldn't have actually understood the intricacies of Jan LokPal bill and the complexities involved in implementing it. 4. I strongly feel there is an urge for an Ambedkar now more than a Gandhi. Hats off to you for publishing your view with valor at this time! from: Muthukumar Ramamoorthy Posted on: Aug 30, 2011 at 14:15 IST The educated elite like many of us dont do anything concrete but keep discussing niceties & procedures. The fact is after 60 yrs of independence our country is one of the most corrupt but We have followed the parliamentary norms! forget the fact that many of the MPs have criminal cases against them, many are relatives of past or present MPs & have their own axe to grind.But these are as per parliamentary norms. The standing committee for lokpal bill consistes of Laloo & Amar Singh!!we needed someone to shake us up, in this nation of

youths & Rahul baba brigade, led by a HONEST PM (who looks the other way when the treasury is being robbed). yes we needed a 74 yr old retired Sepoy to show the way. If our constitution (& the parliamentary processes)are so sacrosanct why have we amended the constitution nearly 95 times till date. By the way US constitution which is 200 yrs old has been amended less than 20 times. from: Raman Posted on: Aug 30, 2011 at 16:14 IST I Agree with this article totally, this bill only is not going to help fight against corruption, lot more things needs to be done, but this could be starting, what i fear is this protest may end just with passing this bill. from: Salauddin Posted on: Aug 30, 2011 at 16:34 IST Lot of people ask the question 'What is the alternative ?'. Here is the answer. The system is made to facilitate people and not the vice versa. The problem of corruption lies within the people who are fighting against it. The enemy is not the system but the people themselves. If every individual pledges to abide by the rules no matter what then this problem would be solved automatically, but the individuals in this case are so weak and dependent on the system that even for governing their thoughts and actions they require a bill to be implemented within the system. A sad truth but a core reality of India. People like Anna support the system to make people more and more weak and dependent. I pity the people, who do not realize this fact and the eventual fate of the country. What people need is not a stupid bill which will only increase tax payers burden but an awakened and an active majority of people who are righteous and collectively think of a nation. from: Vivek Posted on: Aug 30, 2011 at 20:18 IST 1) No institution got destroyed. No constitutional rules were broken. Parliamentary rules are just procedures, not commandments. They can and should be bent to make the policy process more efficient and responsive. 2) You have totally misunderstood parliamentary democracy if you think the election should be the only way to influence policy. The force of public opinion during the policy formulation process is a legitimate tool. 3) Why the heck are you hung on Anna or whether he is comparable to Gandhi. That's a totally separate and (insignificant) issue. The focus here should be on public opinion that demands a very strong anti-corruption ombudsman. 4) The civil society is dictatorial? Just one old man starving does not equate to dictatorship. The true power behind this is public raising up for a common cause, the very essence of democracy. It should be lauded. 5) Lastly, morality is personal. You cannot legislate morality. from: logan Posted on: Aug 30, 2011 at 21:58 IST Wonderful article!! Unless people change themselves nothing can stop corruption.. from: Sri Posted on: Aug 30, 2011 at 22:45 IST

It is easy to say that we should elect honest people to represent us in the Parliament. But can an honest may really win an election, given the money power and muscle power which wins elections? The laws are staked in favour of unscrupulous and dishonest people. The few laws which can prevent such people from contesting elections are seldom enforced. Therefore I support Anna when he says that the current breed of politicians do not represent the will of the people, even though they may have been 'democratically' elected. from: Birendra Singh Khosla Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 10:48 IST I have been hearing we cannot destroy our parliamentary system. But I would like to ask who is destroying the parliamentary system ? Anna never demanded that his version of bill should only be passed. He wanted that his bill should be discussed in the parliament and should be passed as a law only after a thorough discussion in the parliament. It has been 40 long years or even more, since the LOKPAL Bill is being discussed and nothing substantial was done. The present government has been in power for 2 terms, 10 yrs but couldn't get this bill passed. So for how long can we sit dormant waiting for the idealistic suituation to arrive ? I agree with the point that getting this bill passed will not curb corruption completely but that does not mean that we don't take a single step forward towards our ultimate goal of getting rid of corruption. It was Anna's movement which galvanised the whole nation and reminded the people of their daily misery dealing with corruption. from: Ishan Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 11:33 IST Mr. Gupta.. what are you talking about undemocratic and this is not a one night thought this bill is pending for last 42 years, if the parliament as u called it supreme is so aware of the country crisis then it should have been passed long before without any protest, don't forget that parliament consist of netas who themselves are not pure then how the parlianment can be good, and for the last point they should contest election, then they will not be diffrent from the others, they are not like them that's why they have done this, and you know very well that a party MP who spent crores of rupees to buy the ticket to contest election and elected by merely only 15-25% people will not do the goodwill of people or country. from: Rahul Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 11:49 IST It is true we are living in democracy,but is this the mess our forefathres fighted for ? For passing a strict bill any type of opposition was called for from Politicians ? Democracy is good, but it is not the best.We have elected them,but are they worthy, did we had any choice ? Anna was the leader and most of the people supported it.It is because of the mass support politicians agreed other wise they are least bothered. One strict Lokayukta in Karnataka is making the politicians and officers to think twice before doing any act.Two former Chief ministers are in a row to go to jail, one minister is already there inside the jail,these things show that a strict law is needed and such thing was not for the interest of these politicians and that is why we did not have such kind of law till now. Regarding Parliment and proceedures it is created for common good and the same need not be a hurdle.We have to come out of this clerical mentality and support such type of movements when ever situation. from: Rajendra Patil

Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 11:55 IST Gandhiji has gone for fast unto death only once and that is to deny separate electoral constituencies and all the other times it is short time bound. If you say that you should use democratic process yes it is right when democratically elected people understand it. Once they get elected that is the end of democracy. They are trying to impose their own policies on people. If the top is clean the down the line becomes clean and if the top is corrupt the lower level become corrupt. There is a need for change in the electoral process and recalling the elected reps need to come. Before Arnold Schwarzenegger became the Governor of California one person carried a signature campaign to oust the Governor. from: B. P. Kamalkumar Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 11:58 IST Surprised to see so many HINDU readers aganist this article.To me the write make sense.lot of people are clueless and merely following the mass. Awareness campaign on corruption was fair enough,method is wrong. This is a democratic country and better than majority of other countries.Grass is always greener on the other side. from: ts Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 12:08 IST I have just one question to the author of this article and his likes: Is democracy confined only to the walls of the Parliament? I don't understand how a demand for change by the people, I repeat the people, of the very parliamentary structures that have stunted and crippled our society all along is undemocratic. By the way, have you heard of the French Revolution? Or something closer home, the Independence Movement? from: luhar sen Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 12:42 IST Great article, i must congratulate you for writing it so well. from: Amit Rewari Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 12:42 IST This article is a classical example of how to write a treatise full of contradiction. The author states that Gandhiji undertook fast against his own people when there was communal flareup, or when his people killed Britishers, but refuses to accept that same can be undertaken by Anna Hazare. The author takes offence and rightly so at Anna's statement that people of India are not intelligent enough to vote the right candidate and yet he infers the same while stating that the masses at Ram Lila were there for fun and picnic rather than supporting Anna's cause against corruption. The author states that what if some vested group held same demonstration for Kashmir freedom and Parliament may forced to cave in to those - well he is again questioning the intelligence of Indians. from: Amit Jha Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 13:38 IST

If you go in a crowd, it is difficult to get noticed, go against it, you stand out like a sore thumb. That is the logic applied by the writer of this article. I cannot comprehend how somebody who understands the problems in India can go against Anna, his team and millions of supporters across the world. I am quite sad that a website of a national newspaper has allowed such things to go on a public forum. I only want to add that what Anna has done is an awakening of the souls that were dead, and those who didn't bother to vote. The netas who supposedly represent us get their votes through the illiterate masses and not the ones who matter. from: Abhinav Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 16:55 IST Mr Gupta you are writing this article while sitting in an AC room and without seeing the ground realities, difficulties, agonies, torture the ordinary villager has to face while running from one office to another to get a electricity connection, ration card, voter card, SC ST certificate, bank loan, crop insurance claim. Every one wants money for a slight job from the applicant. So you just suggest how to get out of these difficulties. Please be kind to fellow countrymen by giving your valued comments on what to do when your child gets admission as you can pay donation but mine is left out as I cannot pay. One school principal asked me to donate for a pick up van for the school, which I refused and they did'nt admit him, although he was second in a list of 100 who took written test. Mr. Gupta come out of slumber do some national duty by visiting the Rly stations, Motor Licencing Authority, Property Registration Office, Income Tax, Sales Tax, Excise Duty, PWD. You will become Anna. from: puran gandhi Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:02 IST I think annas fast is much gretaer than gandhiji fast as that was against one enemy, whereas this fight is against corrupton which is backed by different politicians , bureaucrats , contractors, middlemen. This is a much tougher fight as this fight within the country as this is a fight against a lobby of people if whose wealth combined could run the economies of various countries ......... i personally salute annaji for putting up such a brave front ..... from: vinay duggal Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:19 IST Somebody should take a step to curb corruption and black money. Anna did. What did you do? from: Leo Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:24 IST Our constitution is a takeaway from the French and English laws.These countries have flourished.What we have it has been amended umpteen number of times. We all know the laws upheld by the constitution have not been able to bring progress, reduce corruption etc. So is it not wise to change it? from: sujay g Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:24 IST

Why is the author playing Merry go round with readers? Is govt not dictating? (We will store black money, take bribes and you cannot do anything about that? Isn't this form of governance dictatorship? If the Author like stronghanded Govts I suggest he is better off to Taliban or Saudi. Let him write nice columns there and he will get rewards too.. I have read Ashish Gupta's article in DNA too. Same amount of venom spit. First of all,does he think supporters were brainless morons? Does he think about people of country that way? You better come clean about your verdict about Indian people. I would kindly suggest the author to go and read First paragraph of American Constitution. If he still doesnt agree, I think he is better off to Taliban where Govt. (whether elected or non elected) is supreme from: Takker G. Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:26 IST I partially agree with the views expressed by you as, on one hand, in order for the system to come cleaner, one cannot sit on the system but rather be the system itself, while on the other, it is not all worth mentioning of shri. Hazare and his activities in such a fashion as described by you. This is because there has defenitely been a need for a vox populi being raised all these times just to awaken the government and the system from the deep slumber and the presence of Shri.Hazare could bring about the same in the wake of his movement with great support from the people of India. from: Santosh Nayar Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:32 IST Unfortunately the author seems happy with the status quo and suggests we give the govt more time??? Didn't they have enough time already to do something about it. As someone who sees India from outside I can tell you the opinion about the situation in India is far less optimistic among us. Every year I come back to India I see the problems worsen and never better. The author seems unconvinced of support for Anna among the common people - Is he really a journalist? If Anna didn't have wide support why would the govt even bother...there are instances of people who have been on never ending fasts with no real result...remember Irom? Yes, I agree Anna's methods are a bit harsh in a democratic situation, but does India actually count as a democracy in the lines of other better off democratic countries. I think not. In the UK, people vote for policies not for people, cast or religion. Unfortunately this is the case in India. The real India is where money is king! from: bv Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:33 IST The man is 74. If you see his record of agitations and protests in Maharashtra, he would have been a dictator in Maharshtra. Its not the case. having friends in political circles makes some authors to malign true movements. Egypt was a so called Democracy like India difference only one National Party was officially ruling.. Was the movement undemocratic? How democratic is India's democracy Mr Gupta? The morals and standards you uphold, is it towards a system that is innocent and not hurting a common man.. Looks it is not hurting Mr Gupta. Being close to politicos makes life easier for some people. Thank God all columnists are not representing Govt. If I were a columnist, and forced to write an article opposite side, I would say a big 'No' because I don't want to question my morals in the quest of writing about people of India's morals.

from: sudhir Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:35 IST If you say corrupts to make an strong anti-corruption bill,will they make?? come on Mr. Gupta talk practically. Why PM was quite even after knowing every thing about 2G scam and A. Raja? because the don't have political will to take action against them that is why India required a Strong, Fair, Independent LOKPAL which not only can monitor what is going in Government and should be able to take action timely manner independently without any political inter-fare. And this is only possible when we force them to do so other wise the will do only , EYE WASH nothing else.. Anna's approach is quite practical as every Indian have the right to raise his voice against what is going wrong and not tolerable.. from: one who is ready to fight against corruption practiaclly. Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:35 IST I would be happy if all laws are passed this way and parliament becomes defunct. This is a better democracy than what those old farts in parliament offer. In India most of the electorate are not very educated and are easily fooled by the current crop of useless politicians. It is high time that the educated civil society to intervenes and ensure that the politicians stop throwing the country to the dogs. from: shan Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:36 IST If you have to treat cancer the medicine should also be equally strong. cold, cough medicines won`t have any effect.The pains the nation is having due the corruptions are equally bad as cancer and needed storng medicines.The statement that you have on the elected representative is partially true. from: Truth Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:38 IST I agree with the author on most points. While we all want to rid the system of corruption as it is affecting all of us but getting it passed at gun point is not at all desirable.Corruption is not solely confined to politicians ,it involves everyone of us at some point or >the other. Unless there is unified effort at all levels,to tackle the monster of corruption, it may remain illusive.Merely by attacking the democratic institutions will no suffice either.those go to the extent of challenging the constitution or have no faith in our representative democracy ,of which we are proud ' need to ponder whether such extreme views are worth it.A host of important issues other than corruption stare at us . are we going to promote same strategy to resolve the issues. How far is it right to hold the nation to ransom.people who are genuinely concerned need to come up with concrete solutions rather than pushing the country towards anarchy. from: tbinepal Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:39 IST I guess most of my dear friends have expressed their views which I agree with. I wonder what the aam janta wud do, Would you give 100 rupees to a govt official for an error or give the higher fine and face the music? Or file a case against an injustice and wait for 12 or more

years for a verdict? My dear author, wake up. In a perfect world, you may be right Aashish. And then too, partly.A section of the privileged elites and intellectual have eagerly expressed their idealistic opinions. I'd rather have them shutup and just listen. Anna can bring a section of elites under the radar. Every man in the country should realise that they have a duty too. Don't give in to corruption and don't corrupt the system. Easy said than done. But a great start. from: Tomar Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:45 IST Great article indeed. It has become a fashion of doing fasting these days who has got some media on him/her. And the Indian media is at its best to showcase every little peanut as a big rock that never existed before. Anna has already questioned the entire system and does he mean that the entire system is corrupt and hence we need to change it? Once we go and speak about the system its nothing but us, we are the ones in the system.We never change ourselves and expect everyone to change. And please tell me how many of you guys really take a doctor prescription fees as a bill if not treated in big hospitals? Some guys take it because they would get reimbursement from the insurance companies. rest I'm sure they don't. its starts from us and don't depend on someone and say that he is going to do some kind of good for us. from: Karthik Reddy Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:46 IST Lots of readers have commented supporting the Jan Lokpal bill and Anna's method of agitation. But can any one of you respond how to solve the problems mentioned by the author through the Lokpal bill. Giving a deadline and asking Govt to pass a resolution within a certain timeframe is as good as blackmailing. If something is done in a hurry, then there is a possibility of oversight in framing the bill or passing a bill that favours few organizations. Later someone will take advantage of the loophole. If a leader insists on having a new idea and to change the way the Govt runs, he should contest election based on some plank and let voters decide. Also how many small towns and villages participated in this recent agitation? Not many and that shows where the priorities are. Can the lokpal bill guarantee that it would solve a case within a year? If not, it may be used as a delaying tactics by opponents to spoil another's career. from: sb Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 17:55 IST Mr Gupta, you are very good at writing long essays. After going through the whole article, it makes me feel that it is written under obligation. Needless to say it is a no brainer. It is only giving you some footage. Mr. Gupta must be chuckling at the response of the people. from: Pravin Tamse Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 18:23 IST Small observation away from all Anna movement: Though comment was posted on weekend, most the of replies came up on a Monda/Tuesday ( working day)..are we not supposed to work? If any Govt Official does the same thing, we will label him as a useless piece. But we too do it..even I am sitting in office and typing this...the analogy I am trying to draw is..we

are a part of whatever happens around us...we allow Anna to fast, we allow delay in justice Ajmal Kasab's death sentence..its us guys. If anybody thinks Anna can stop corruption..he/she is wrong. It cannot be stopped unless we are sensible, just like, smokin bans on public areas, jumping signals..these are laws but do we follow it...we are the criminals and we are shouting against it...remove the blinkers...wake up guys !! from: Dev Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 18:26 IST The opposite view stands good only to capture attention of a reader. It doesn't have convincing points. Its mere theory. Practical situation is a mirror image of author's view. from: sudhir Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 18:31 IST We are also proud of our democracy and parliament but Dear friend you do not know hardship face by poor people of the country and how Govt and Public service person behave when you enter Govt office for some work. You please come with solution and get it approved by Govt we will follow you. Don't Criticize any one like Anna. He is open book. You are hiding behind and giving us this speech. from: Harsh Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 18:38 IST Any time a person takes up public office, then the person has to accept greater responsibility than one who hasnt. So the system has to be cleansed to bring about this accountability to office before we can trust it to govern us adequately. We cannot blindly sing praises of a democracy when there are gaping holes that makes it a pseudo- dictatorship of those in power. So dont use Bush's logic of "If you're not with us, you're against us", to say that people supporting Anna's method are against Democracy. The need of the hour is to bring awareness to the common man about their rights, the effect of their daily actions (their vote, and their bribe), cleanse the political system, and efforts like this are a means to that end. Unfortunately most people don't wake up from their deep slumber unless drastic actions are taken - and this is one such. If everyone was awake then subtle gestures would do. So Ashish know your situation by living the life of a common man, not as an armchair critic. from: Human first Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 18:43 IST Elected leaders are a reflection of the views of the voting population. If you do not like that image - change it through elections. Blame yourself for not voting. If the voting population asks for accountability from its executive and legislators- it will get one. Sadly, it does not.. it has more money than time, aka will willingly pay for 'tatkal/extra' service in the form of bribe. Honesty begins @ home and is very personal. Get educated on the law, rules and your responsibilities. Get Civil and Civic. Be Accountable & Seek Accountability. Democracy is a rich person's business get used to it. It is a costly and a chaotic way of self governance. from: Victor J Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 18:53 IST

For a lawless country like India, Anna is the saviour. Our thugs in Parliament will not pass any law that jeopardizes their wealth or their family's rich and lavish lifestyle. Actually we need capital punishment like Singapore / Saudi Arabia. Just come up with the law that bribe takers hand would be chopped off, and see the magic unfold. Our corrupt politicians will not pass this in the name of democracy and leniency. They are all for looting the nation rather than welfare of the society. God bless Anna and his clan. from: Sridhar Hydbad Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 19:28 IST First of all government is not in a position to concede whoever undergone indefinite fast.If the issue is genuine they don't have other option rather than concede. Recently Mr.Ramdev baba also undergone fast with the political motivation. Does government concede anything to him at all? does all section of people supported him really? In case of Anna what happen after his arrest? Why government withdraw all the charges against Anna b'coz this is the issue which is eating India's growth and it's reputation all across the world.The government and politicians are doing anything? how many years it took to arrest 2G spectrum scam? why don't government act immediately after CAG report rather than waiting for supreme court to interfere. More over what ever Anna spoke during his agitation all are FACTS everyone know about. why all politician's assets become 100 times more after entering into politics? you must answer this question. from: datt Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 19:29 IST Corruption in India is a systemic problem. The bureaucratic and the political systems were built on this foundation. Therefore, the task of reform is monumental, and it cannot be achieved under the threat of hunger strike and emotional public pressure. I don't live in India and I don't honestly know the intentions of Anna Hazare. However, to me the movement appears to be hyped with media's support and completely orchestrated by unseen forces. If the society wants to find solutions to tackle the issue of corruption then they should first voice their opinion to their elected representatives and give them a chance to formulate a solution. Keep informed of the political deliberations and keep pressure on the politicians until a reasonable solution is found. from: Jayaram Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 20:00 IST We can unequivocally say the Anna's agitation has kicked-off a debate on corruption like never before.But this also equally true that the method adopted and the demands made have set dangerous precedence in a nascent democracy like India.By not including private corporates,media and NGOs in it's Jan Lokpal Bill Kejriwal led so-called civil society has punched more holes than those plugged in the anti-corruption crusade. In our quest for a corruption-free society we must not let any action to jeopardise the democracy. from: Bankim Samaddar Posted on: Aug 31, 2011 at 21:59 IST The writer has no idea about corruption and he is under the illusion that parliament is functioning so well. Sad fact is that for two consecutive sessions the parliament is not

functioning at all. It is adjourned everyday. I would call it 'Parlia(adjourn)ment'. We do not have mature politicians who want to attack the issues of the commoner and the problem the country is facing. We have MPs who behave like cattle based on orders from their parties. How can we achieve democracy? How many MPs really talk in the parliament on issues unbiased? How many MPs ever talked to the people in their respective constituencies on the Lokpal? I am certain that only a few are aware of the bill. The writer should visit overseas and check how countries are run and how they have prospered. To fix India - the MPs and the bureaucrats should be held accountable for what they perform as 'official' duty. Its almost 11th hour. from: Baskaran Kasimani Posted on: Sep 1, 2011 at 10:31 IST I really appreciate the author for this report. I too am against corruption and ready to catch the neck of a person who does it. But, I couldn't agree that in a democratic country, create a sensitive mood in people and threaten the government saying that this is what you need to do, else I'll die on fast. Everyone has the right to give recommendations but not threaten. Then why do we have elections and why do we have people elected on our behalf in a democratic country? If the elected is bad it is our mistake who elected them. Why couldn't he fight asking for an election from the people on what needs to be in the bill, rather than saying this is what should be? Else let him get into the parliament as an elected member and demand it, which would set an example for the politicians too. His fast has led a bad example across the country and I would say that the fasts being done in Tamil Nadu to stop the hanging is purely seeing the government bend to Anna's fast. from: MM Posted on: Sep 1, 2011 at 11:42 IST The above comment is very clear that don't want lokpal bill to be a law, and it also very clear that people who are happy taking bribe obviously do not want the jan lok pal,....Even when the biggest scam took place in recent times....we have people who say we don't support the people who protest against corruption.... why don't we understand that this is not the final bill which will be passed their is lot to be done... this is just a draft..... to pass a resolution annaji had to go for 13 day fast.... i really don't know who goes fast for how many days to have such anti corruption bill passed in our country.......but one thing is sure that the youth of india stands with such agitations... same with Annaji's next move... from: Achyuta Dabeer Posted on: Sep 1, 2011 at 15:20 IST HA HA HA "If Parliament is not reflecting and acting as per the interest of voters, we need to elect candidates and parties which will meet our aspirations and directions." HA HA HA. As if you don't know how the elections are 'taken care'. from: Sandeep Posted on: Sep 2, 2011 at 08:15 IST This article is closed for comments. Please Email the Editor