In an attempt at doing its bit to the nation-wide campaign against corruption, Coimbatore City has come up with a new forum named “Coimbatore against Corruption”.
The forum will hold its first public meeting here on August 20, at which the scourge of corruption and the Lokpal Bill will be discussed and solidarity with anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare will be expressed.
Platform for all
Members of the forum told presspersons on Thursday that it would be a platform for the citizens of Coimbatore and various social organisations and trade bodies to lend support to Mr.Hazare's campaign.
The public meeting at 5 p.m. on August 20 will be held in front of CODISSIA Trade Fair Complex. People from all sections, including students, workers, farmers, businessmen and senior citizens, will participate.
Rajaram, a professor from Madurai will speak on the pros and cons of the Lokpall Bill. Bhajans will be rendered by T.M. Krishna. People can hoist a blue flag in their houses, wear a blue band and display messages of support on their vehicles, the forum members said.
Blue is the colour symbolising transparency.
Managing Trustee of Siruthuli and core committee member of the forum Vanitha Mohan said many people were not able to understand the reports on Lokpall Bill.
Hence the meeting would put forth before the people the contents of the Bill and what Anna Hazare was fighting for. She added that everybody wanted a corruption-free government.
Students
Mohan Shankar, a core committee member said students were the most affected by corruption and hence all efforts were being taken to reach them through SMS, email and through other social media networks to encourage them to participate in the meeting.
He added that in future, politicians should know that people were against corruption and they would join for a noble cause. He also called upon the traders to down their shutters and express their solidarity.
Fast
The forum would also support the fast organised by Fifth Pillar on Friday in front of Hotel Tamil Nadu and the public meeting organised by India against Corruption on Sunday at Sivananda Colony, added another core committee member M. Kandasamy, who is president of Coimbatore District Small Industries Association.
Public are requested to bring a candle each to join the candle light vigil at the end of the meeting.
Other core committee members include, Ravi Sam, M. Krishna Kumar, Krish Hari Krishnan, D. Balasundaram. Details can be sought over email (nocorruptionkovai@gmail.com).
