Emphasising zero tolerance of corruption, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Thursday called for exploring methods — without curbing freedom of expression — for enforcing regulation and accountability in the ownership pattern of media houses for transparency on issues of paid news, monopolies and political affiliations of owners and journalists.
Releasing the national manifesto for the Lok Sabha election, AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal said that while his party appreciated the need for a vibrant and independent media, it was concerned at the increasing allegations of paid news.
The party promised a slew of initiatives including installation of CCTV cameras in court rooms and police stations, and bringing down the age to contest elections from 25 to 21.
Bringing in an effective Jan Lokpal Bill, decentralisation of political and economic power, revival of the rural economy and good governance are the priority areas.
The judiciary, police and all political parties would be brought under the Right to Information Act. The number of judges would be doubled in five years and not lodging an FIR in a police station would be a criminal offence.
Will review AFSPA
The AAP will review and reform laws like the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) to make them time-bound. There would be no immunity to the armed forces for sexual violence against women.
The AAP leader said his party was industry-friendly but against crony capitalism. “All efforts would be made to de-regulate procedures for doing business friendly and less cumbersome. Unless industry flourishes, jobs are not created.”
