Has the battle between good and bad been lost again? Can we remain silent at the insidious adventures of some elements trying to scare away public-spirited people?
The national capital is an excessively pampered city. Mindboggling amounts of money have been poured into it for improving infrastructure. This exercise has undeniably yielded dividends. Supreme among the additions to the average citizen's comfort is the metro built by Sridharan who, incidentally, is a phenomenon of sorts. The swanky new airport Terminal 3 is also something to crow about. Thanks to a judicial fiat a few years ago and the mandatory use of CNG for public transport buses, the quality of air has also improved. There is a constant attempt to beautify the city that has made Delhi really attractive. On the whole, it has become a more agreeable city than many others in the country to live in and raise a family.
It is an irony and tragedy, therefore, that Delhi is now polluted by the machinations of a small number in the polity who are hell-bent bent on destroying our faith in civilised living. This group of influential people with a somewhat shady past is scared of the critical mass that social activist Anna Hazare has picked up during the past few weeks. It would somehow like to derail his movement to promote ethics in public life.
Dismaying are the events of the past few days surrounding the circulation of a mysterious CD that contains scurrilous material against a few who are associated with Mr. Hazare. There are conflicting views on the genuineness of the CD. I wouldn't like to pronounce my views on this contentious matter. Let us wait for the opinion of a credible and reputed expert. The unfortunate feeling that has been generated is that there is possibly now an orchestrated endeavour to damn everybody who desires to inject some ethics into public life.
The vital questions that legitimately arise are: Has the battle between good and bad been again lost? Can we remain silent at the insidious adventures of some unscrupulous elements who are trying to scare away public-spirited men and women? These are the issues that are uppermost in the minds of a large number of people, who recently started looking upon Anna as a messiah, much to the discomfort of some inside the establishment and many outside.
I am no friends of the controversial personalities now being assailed for the alleged slander of a judge. I barely know them. I am, however, appalled by rumours that they are being targeted because of their closeness to Anna Hazare. Another rumour doing the rounds is that this is a masked operation aimed at persuading a senior judge to recuse himself from hearing a sensitive case. Both conjectures, irrespective of whether they have a basis or not, speak volumes of the quality of public life in the country.
No institution and no public official now seem exempt from calumny at the hands of those who themselves are unabashed violators of law. In such a miasmic atmosphere, the trend of good people shunning public office is likely to become stronger by the day. This development can be reversed only with the help of persons with a strong will and fire in the belly. It is nearly certain that it is not enough to be clean. It seems equally important to have the guts to hit back at detractors with a dubious agenda. Nothing else is likely to work in defusing persons with a questionable agenda, whose main strength is the sly support received from those who are close to power centres.
A somewhat specious argument, put forth by a few vested interests, runs along these lines. How can Anna Hazare and company stifle discussion on the format and future of the anti-corruption campaign? This is with a view to damning them as anti-democratic and fascist. Nothing can be farther from truth. The impression sought to be circulated is that the crusade against lack of integrity in high places is a brand new development and that a lot of time and opportunity need to be given to lawmakers to ponder over the subject and come to deliberate and calculated conclusions on how corruption should be fought through a foolproof law. This stand borders on the ridiculous considering that the proposed law has been debated for more than four decades.
If Mr. Hazare sounds impatient, and possibly irascible, it is because he is convinced he has waited long enough to see his lifetime objective fulfilled. It is not the ranting of a selfish old man who aims at self-glorification and is itching to embarrass the establishment. What his critics are trying to propagate, with unmistakable dishonest intentions, is that he is being exploited by vainglorious egotistic individuals who have jumped on the Hazare bandwagon just to settle scores with their adversaries.
I feel it is dangerous to ignore this ill-advised and vengeful group as inconsequential. We know that untruth repeated ad nauseam comes to be looked upon as the gospel. It is my experience that in modern India it is not enough for you to have a decades-long track record of honesty and goodness. In the past, an unsullied reputation for integrity and desire to help the common man stood by you when brickbats were thrown at you. The present situation is so ugly that every time somebody challenges your honesty of purpose and unwillingness to bend to those in power, you will have to prove that you have nothing to hide from society. There cannot be a worse time in Indian history for good people in public life. This is why I am worried about the future of the Hazare movement. If good people in massive numbers do not now come out boldly to express their solidarity with him, he will become just a footprint in the sands of time.
Mr. Hazare has announced that he will abide by the wishes of Parliament when it comes to passing a Lokpal law. He is being clever and correct so that he can carry all MPs with him. I, however, perceive a slight contradiction here. Mr. Hazare knows that across the political spectrum there is absolutely no will to install an omnipotent Lokpal who will fear no one. This absence of consensus on the subject among people who matter when it comes to law-making is the bane of the system. To expect Parliament to agree upon a strong ombudsman is a pipe dream. Hence, when Mr. Hazare says he will go by the wishes of our legislators, he is being unrealistic.
But then, does he have options? This is a real catch-22 situation. He has to carry Parliament with him. At the same time, he knows he will have no staunch backers on that forum for an effective Lokpal. Does this mean he should desist from asking for the moon and settle for mother earth? Not at all. Whatever he chooses to do, it is for the common man to continue to exert pressure on the polity for framing the most practical yet deterrent law. The media's role in maintaining public focus is crucial. Nothing else will help.
(Dr. R.K. Raghavan is a former CBI Director.)
Keywords: social activist, Anna Hazare, Lokpal Bill, Hazare movement, joint committee, CD controversy
The media is using very subtle language to implicate people. Example:NDTV flashed the sentence "Bhushans in trouble" in its news channel. They probably were not troubled at all... but that is how they paint the picture...
My comment is for everyone in general.
Don't you think that corruption has helped in some development to the world. Things gets worsened or gets out-of-control when people become 'greedy' of having more and more.
Lokpal bill has been a great initiative and I totally support it. But to make it a better one, there has to be a small room for air to come in and go. Else it will become congested and finally the people who made it will only try to break the glass to let the air flow.
My question is how can common people help this fight against corruption? In India, like always, if it is a game of numbers, and if I can do nothing else , I will like to come to this movement and increase ranks....corruption is something that people criticise , when they are not indulging in it , and keep shut happily , when they are benifitting from it. It is this cancer that we have to tackle.
It is vital that the momentum for good continues, despite differing views and the understandable frustration being expressed at present. So to progress ideas and to encourage everyone to join in:
1. It is almost irrelevant now to analyse all the reasons why the people of India find themselves in the situation they are in today, from which they long to escape. What is at stake is far more important than any self-interest of any individual, or any section of the community, or political party, for what is at issue here is the fundamental human rights of all Indians to lead an honest, peaceful life without fear of daily harassment, or worse.
As I have stated many a time in the comments in 'The Hindu', corruption is ever pervasive. It is mightier than Almighty. It is like a cancer or octopus which moves in all directions. Corruption is the pest that is attacking the mother root our development. We shall support the cause of the Anna Hazare without any inhibitions, since every citizen is affected by the malicious corruption at one stage or another and at higher or lower grade. The politicians are nurturing the corruption with no holds barred. The cause of Anna Hazare shall not be let down. As citizens of India we shall champion the cause of Anna Hazere and channelize the fight against corruption.
Delhi Metro rail is getting praise from various quarters. Yes . It is due to great ,clean efforts of Mr.Sridharan. Hope Chennai project will go in that way also. The present Tamil Nadu election also speaks volume of good people at the Election Commission who can do wonders with vast powers but with the same set of police and revenue officials. As people at the top of the Election Commission never cared for anybody but went on like seizing of money, conducting raids, issuing notices to all political leaders etc. invited criticism from some quarters but public is completely happy the way in which election was held. Similarly criticism is being levelled against some eminent people who are to draft the bill. But I am of the opinion that they must hit back at the criticism and must go on with the job in hand. Only then people want to serve the people with clean hands can be seen and we expect our nation to grow.
I am a proud Indian citizen working abroad. But many a time I have felt defenseless when the topics of corruption come in our discussion among colleagues from different nationalities. Almost everytime, someone would end up narrating an unpleasant experience which they had to face during their business dealing in India because of the rampant corruption prevailing. Corruption in India is at a stage where it is open secret that things do not move without paying a bribe. The majority of India do want a corrupt-free India. But being helpless against the corrupt few the rest have either given up on it or decided to become part of it.So it was a welcome change that someone has had the courage to take it up and how the rest have shown their willingness to join this movement. It is not that Mr Anna Hazare has all the answers to propel this movement to success (I say this taking note of some of the comments, which criticise Mr Anna Hazare and also Dr. Raghavan). But if we let people like Mr. Anna fail this time, it is not his failure, but rather that of a nation with a high number of intellectuals and that of a people who want our nation to march forward corrupt-free.People like Anna Hazare have made me feel prouder.
1. Instead of single personnel, suggest a panel consisting of ombudsman, Chief Justice of India, and two judges (presiding or retired) nominated by the ombudsman.
2. The tenure for Ombudsman should be short and a panel of members should be formed and selection made from the pool.
3. Create a panel of apolitical eminent members from different fields and walks, religion, NGOS, farmers, industrialists across the country who would appoint the ombudsman. One third of this members should be replaced periodically with no more than three years of continuity in the commitee/panel
Mr Raghavan's concern is very valid.It is very difficult to be an optimist in the context of present day dirty and corrupt politics. Unfortunately these politicians may have the last laugh.They will either block the bill indefinitely or will pass a bill to create a toothless Lok Pal.
Well expressed an article .. timely ... with honest intent. Anna Hazare's movement has drawn the battle line between the 'chronically corrupt power-mongers' and the 'ones who are by and large fair and desirous of order in civics'.. Those with visions, be discerning, active ... keep the momentum..
Nothing nust stop the fight against corruption, even if the parliament does not pass the bill. Should that happen Anna Hazare and the team must start public education campaign. This must focus on quality of people in public service and politicians. The people's movement must force the future politicians to start declaring their assets prior to the election and every year. This declaration must be public. Moreover there must be movement to amend the constitution to limit the MLAs and MPs maximum period in public service to 10 years. No minister must be allowed to be in offcie for more than 2 periods.
All MPs must attend the parliment for the entire period of the parliament and any absence must be approved by the Speaker. After all how is it different to any factory job. Any extra sitting may be paid as OT wages and absence punished. All politicians must stay in the government quarters and only their immediate family must be allowed to stay with them. No party flags must be allowed in front of these quarters and on their cars. Once they are elected they work for the country and not for their partymen.
It takes a lot of political courage to do such things but the people can be changed to make this political change.
With the controversies raised about the Bhushans, everybody is missing the basic issue, i.e. the draft Jan Lokpal Bill. I have not so far read a single article critically evaluating the draft bill, as presented by Anna Hajare and his group. I must say that the bill is not free from deficiencies. In my view, the bill should be subjected to rigorous examination by all the stakeholders before it is presented to the both houses of the Partliament. Both, the print and electronic media have miserably failed in their task in this regard.
Some people, including academics, have criticised the anti-corruption movement as UNDEMOCRATIC! So what does democracy mean? The SOED (The Shorter Oxford with more than half a million definitions) says 'democracy (n) from Ancient Greek DEMOS + CRACY: means 1. Govt by the people; a form of government in which power resides in the people and is exercised either directly or by means of elected representatives; a form of society which favours equal rights, the ignoring of hereditary class distinctions, and tolerance of minority views 2.A state or community in which the power of govt resides in or is exercised by the people 3. That class of people which has no hereditary or special rank or privilege; the common people.' and the Historian GM Trevelyan said 'transition from aristocracy to democracy, from authority to mass judgement.'
So, could someone please explain to me, in what sense the anti-corruption movement, expressing the will of the people, wanting to eradicate/reduce the oppressive regime of corruption and bribery and authoritarian rule, is undemocratic? Since when have the 'elected representatives' become the source of democracy, while for decades they seem to have ignored what people are crying out for? Or,are they under the delusion that they are still part of some feudal system where power must pass from parents to children, whether the people want it or not, and all that is required to stay in power is money; or in other words, like any other business invest some capital first in order to collect income (bribes, if you will) with impunity? Do the present incumbents, and their advisers, feel that all they have to do is to rebuff people's appeal in an imperious manner, without any worry about returning to power?
It is understandable however that some people would wish to believe that the anti-corruption movement is suffering from FRENZY (temporary insanity, wild folly). Of course time will either prove them right, or may point to their own frenzy!
The contention of Shri Hazare's detractors is that we have all committed acts of corruption big or small and so we don't have the right to fix the system. Instead of debating with that argument and getting in to specifics, can we as Indians agree we have committed acts of corruption indirectly or directly, big or small and resolve to not do it anymore in the future and put statutory limitation on past indiscretion in the new Lokpal bill? This will offer protection from past deeds and allow us to more forward without any distractions from the past.
Very good Article indeed . I still don't see enough thought given by Anna Brigade about - how can there be a check on Lokpal? Bhushans are an example and its good that it came up at beginning. As long as it does not cause people to lose faith in this movement - its a good reminder for people that - Lokpal with obvious powers should also have equal accountability . With the current state of indian Politics- i liked your view - irrespective of all questions over the final form of this bill - comman man who wants to see reduced corruption and transparent politics should support Anna and exert as much pressure as they can. People from small to large towns should come out in support with Anna . I am afraid with Anna's ability over leading such a movement - which is exactly why we all should side with him and provide utmost support .
Well said Dr. Raghavan. You have correctly described the dilemma of the few honorable and upright men who want to cleanse the public life. Still, the fight has to go on!
Raghavan Sir, The fruitfullness of the ideas remains only in the articles. In public interest why don't you join this movement along with some good people?
The detailed and well balanced article by the author is in realty a wake up call to the masses to help Anna Hazare & Co to come out with reasonably tough,but not all powerful Lokpal draft ,to be okayed by the Parliament in the ensuing session before 15th August 2011 ;failing which Anna Hazare's position goes back to square one ! And the consequences of not introducing the drafted bill may lead to turmoil, convulsion and /or paroxysm like perilous situation ! Nobody wants such a situation should ever occur even distantly ! Therefore, the UPA Govt and the Congress must tone down its rhetoric which unnecessarily has curdled the milk before it could be given the right dose of the 'culture' to obtain the right solution !
Well timed article. Article helped to maintain the focus. The media's role in maintaining public focus is crucial.
Hating Parliamentarians and undermining politics seems to be a zeitgeist across India. 'To expect Parliament to agree upon a strong ombudsman is a pipe dream. ' Mr. R.K. Ragahavan must have forgotten that these very parliamentarians have passed Right to Information Act few years back. Also, they came together to pass law for disclosure of criminal cases. They came together to end defections and to top it all they passed a bill to limit the number of ministries in a government. We should not forget that the Parliamentarians are not against India. They are doing whatever it takes to stay in power. If we build a system where good is encouraged and bad is shown doors, the entire political process can be cleaned up. And in a Democracy this should be done by men of integrity joining Politics.
The committee of 10 persons has been constituted to draft an effective Lokpal Bill which ideally should have the teeth to pin down even a Prime Minister,if found to be corrupt, regardless of the Party in power. If the bill has such powers,it obviously will be able to nail the smallest functionary of the Government. The bill should also have the powers to nab the businessmen and brokers indulging and inducing govt officials and politicians in corruption. Like in the drafting of Constitution, the drafting of an effective Lokpal Bill calls for all possible possibilities (hypothetical situations) to be covered to uncover corrupt practices. The Political Parties in general have at least not publicly opposed the drafting of the Bill, but have been trying to scuttle the movement by questioning the credentials of some Civil Society members in the Drafting Committee, with the basic objective to prevent the Bill from seeing the light of the day.Assume for a moment that there are unsubstantiated allegations of corruption against some members in the Committee. Does it matter so much if they are in the Drafting Committee, as long as an effective Lokpal Bill is drafted to nab even the mighty. If the Bill has the powers to catch the mighty, it will obviously be able to tackle even the Panel members, as also virtually anyone indulging in corruption, whether inside the Government or outside.The Government ought to have jumped with the proposal of Mr Anna Hazare for video graphing the proceedings, by volunteering for 'live' telecast of deliberations in the drafting of the Bill, as it would have shown to the public the sincerity of the Government for a sound and effective Lokpal Bill, which could have become a role model for other developing economies facing rampant corruption.
The politicians in key positions of power are facing allegations of corruption on various fronts. The nation rejoiced when there seemed to be a popular upsurge led by Anna Hazare and some other civil society leaders against corruption.The powers that be have therfore decided that this upsurge should be nipped in the bud by creating doubts in the mind of the people about the probity and integritty of these crusaders against corruption. A dirty tricks brigade was quickly constituted with this end in view and it has started work in right earnest. Does one need any more evidence to conclude that the corrupt are running for cover? However the cover they are seeking is certain to elude them considering the present mood in the country.
Looks like some honest heads will roll before corrupt ones. Justice works in strange ways.
There are some brilliant comments here, also I have always admired 'The Hindu'. All I can add is that our politicians are criminals. They know LokPal Bill will put them behind bars. 50% of Indian children are malnourished but politicians are busy filling their pockets. I pray for safety of the brave souls in the Committee and the activists at the forefront of this movement. Please, support Anna in every way you can. We have seen the success of RTI Act. Anna knows what ails the country and in spite of being an idealist he has prevailed over the crooked politicians.
We should support Anna and not be distracted by the finger pointing. We have not seen the worst. We know what our politicians are capable of. Just hope. Just do what you can. "We shall overcome"
2 points: 1. The Media - Willy nilly they are adding fuel to the fire. Look at NDTV, IBN Live anchors etc. Pathetic, parochial, purile, putrid and bombastic. Real sorry state I must say. 2. The movement that Hazareji started should not and cannot lose momentum. Irrespective of the obvious mallicious campaigns the jittery politicos have launched, the mass movement has to move on. We definitely need the likes of Sri E Shreedharan and Sri R K Raghavan must contribute their might to this process.
Those who want to do good to the society will undeniably have to face vilification campaigns by those who stand to lose out. This should be expected and faced with courage and determination. If Bhushans or Hegde resign from the panel, the last and final hope of Indians will be lost for ever. Many honest citizens in the country avoid politics only because they fear these sort of malicious campaigns.
Why all this fuss about a simple thing like corruption, an ingredient that got inducted into our national psyche even before Independence and has grown exponentially since? A hundred Anna Hazare type movements will ultimately amount to nought for sure. Ergo, the best solution is to legalise it through a suitable amendment in our Constitution. In any case, such a legalisation already prevails when the infamous Office of Profit Bill was passed some time back. So why bother about such a trivial issue?
A more vehement and forthright condemnation of those indulging in slander against Anna Hazare and his team could not be had .One is able to feel how tense Mr. Raghavan must have been when penning this article.Mr. Raghavan is not alone and we join him to condemn those behind the vilification campaign. But we have to juxtapose Anna's victory against the loss the political class will suffer if a Lokpal is enacted and we will able to understand the desperation of the political class.There is now a growing blurring of lines between the political class and the business class and still, if Anna Hazare could wrest a victory by compelling the government to constitute a joint drafting committee,it is because people are behind it. Leave alone political henchmen and brokers, even the intelligentia of the left inclination particularly, contribute to the general confusion by alluding to the so-called absence of ideology in Anna's crusade and his good words for Mr.Narendra Modi and the Gujarat government.They fear that BJP will be the gainer if Anna's campaign succeeds and they want to prevent that. The intelligensia must rid itself of the BJP phobia and understand that this is the most opportune time to bring about a legislation to fight corruption at high places and unite behind Anna. Even JP's total revolution could not bring about a mechanism to fight corruption.This is the time to take advantage of the universal revulsion against corruption at high places.
This article exactly captures the complete situation accurately like a hawk hunting its prey. Swami Vivekananda said 'The river cannot pick up its speed if it does not have opposition.' The river of public support that has started must come up even stronger and overcome all the opposition.
Several new issues have cropped since the last few days and the focus have shifted from the core objective of formulation of jan lokpal bill. Many questions have been raised about them and somehow the civil society members have dig in their heels to protect the image of Bhushans and forgetting the bill. The whole discourse in media is focussed solely on proving the innocence of Bhushans. Lets analyse the issues at hand.1. People are terming the attacks as a malicious campaign: Well, however we may despise Amar Singh and Digvijay Singh, but the questions raised are genuine vis a vis Noida land allotment of 10,000 sq m and non-payment of stamp duty on property acquisitions. This is apart from the CD controversy which actually casts doubt on their modus-operandi of being PIL experts where Prashant bhushan files PIL and Shanti bhushan represents the other side. Rather than coming up with genuine reasons, the Bhushans are giving vague answers. For e.g., Shanti bhushan has argued that Noida deal can be cancelled if it was inappropriate. I think he is acting too simplistic and people of this country are not naive that they can't see a quid pro quo with UP govt. 2. Another argument is being made that Bhushans are on the panel due to their legal expertise and their behaviour outside should not matter much: I am afraid, this is totally unacceptable and untenable on two counts, firstly, the objective is to frame a 'anti-corruption bill', so how can people entangled in corrupt practices be entrusted with such a legislation. Secondly, don't we have better lawyers than the Bhushans in this country. There are legal luminaries like Fali Nariman, Soli Sorabjee, Ram Jethmalani etc etc., who are much better than them. 3.A final argument is being made that five govt nominees are no saints: Well, there are no charges against either of Pranab Mukherjee, Chidambaram, Kapil Sibal, Salman Khursheed and Moily, so this argument is laughable till any charges are made. 4.Finally, public life itself means higher levels of morality and probity. Talks of transparency can't be directed only towards politicians; Bhushans also have to come clean. I think Justice Hegde showed it yesterday when he spelt his intentions of quitting the panel just on levelling of charges by Digvijay Singh. I strongly support the presence of Mr. Hegde on panel and he should not quit but the Bhushans should take a lesson from it and quit the panel for larger good. They should not make it an ego issue and continue supporting from outside. And plz add Kiran Bedi on the panel too, her integrity and her selflessness is beyond any doubt.Ultimately, it seems that civil society members are treading on a dangerous path. The movement was welcomed by the whole of society and got wide support and it gave a hope to us that a strong anti-corruption bill can be formed soon. But it seems that civil society members have digressed from the core objective and whole efforts are being made to save the presence of few members only. We must remember that the objective is formation of Jan lokpal with or without the Bhushans. Anna Hazare plz don't loose focus now, we want to see the glimmer of hope turn into reality soon.
Political integrity and honesty is a broad concept - one of whose chief manifestation is willingness to combat corruption. Politcians speaking against or working against a strong LOK PAL bill being drafted are indirectly smearing themselves with muck . The roar that is echoing through the country is the voice of the people, not a political party. With Anna filling in the leadership vacuum , the fog of despondency has lifted . Cynisism is out and optimism is in. The Indian masses have seen some hope. The Indian middle-class also has woken up finally. Under such circumstances, this kind of smear campaign and efforts to derail the movement will prove counter-productive for those with vested interests within and and outside the establishment. The masses will sooner than later realise that a stronger push is needed to get the Lok Pal bill drafted , passed and implemented . It would be in the best interest of the Govt and the Politicians with dubious track records to wake up and fulfill the peoples wishes. A 'Tahrir Square' kind movement has not happened in India yet and there is no guarantee that it will not happen, if those in power dont recognise the mood of the nation and act accordingly.If there are clean politicians in India remaining , they can be honoured only if they too raise their voice for this just cause. Same applies for the media in India .After the Radia tapes, the public are fully aware of which media co-operates with whom and which media is on the side of th people. And after all what are the people battling for - just to formulate a Lokpal Bill that will allow for impartial and effective inquiries into complaints against public officials. Why should the Govt ; Political class and some in the Media feel uncomfortable over it , if the integrity and honesty they proclaim is true?
As we have seen since the media (read the Indian Express) is more concerned about whether or not a CD is a true recording of a conversation that may or may not have happened. I don't pin my hopes on the media in this regard.
In a typical Indian mob frenzy let us not create an institution which may undermine our democractic foundation. Let there be enough checks and balances lest the Lokpal turns rouge.
It is one of those few saner voices among those expressing cynicism and criticizing Anna Hazare's methods without offering any alternative on their own. By such expression of cynicism those so called 'best brains' of the country unwittingly strengthen the malicious campaign unleashed against India Against Corruption. Mr. Raghavan's fears are not unfounded and he has rightly expressed the misgivings of every patriotic and well meaning common Indian citizen. While he is doing his bit to prevent the loss of this battle of the good against evil by writing such articles, I hope people like him should muster not only public opinion but also their real numerical strength in different parts of the country to prop up the historic movement against the corrupt forces. The display of massive public opinion as well as the numbers alone can help to win over a hypocritical and posturing government and destroy the machinations of the corrupt forces which at the moment seem to be having a field day, strangely receiving support from some sections of the media. For some unknown reasons, these sections of the media look to have switched sides much like the corrupt politicians against whom the campaign was started.
There is only one way to get out of the present tight situation. People have to be told that issues raised by Anna Hazare are far more important than the pepole chosen by him to tackle the issues. If we have to fight corruption we cannot allow the defeatists and anti-people activists (who believe that they are the torch bearers of Parliamentary democracy but are not really so)to scuttle the fight. As a first step,Anna may be requested to convene an urgent meeting of his supporters and seek their frank opinion about Shanti Bhushan's continuation in the Committee for drafting the Lokpal bill. Shanti Bhushan can then be persuaded to resign and in his place an eminent lawyer may be nominated. All those who support the anti- corruption movement should stand united for the right cause.
Mr. R.K. Raghavan is as usual logically incisive in his observations.The utterly reprehensible utterances of Congress general secretary Digvijay Singh is the part of a deep rooted plot to destabilize the anti corruption movement and he obliviously has the blessing of the corrupt party leaders in his vilification campaign. People will see clearly through Sonia Gandhi's duplicity in not restraining him at the same time sympathizing with Anna Hazare anti-corruption crusade. The sickening hypocrisy of running with the hare and hunting with hounds will fool none. It deeply unfortunate that by failing to deal with highly civilized, bottoms-up peaceful civil protest the ruling establishment will be forced pay heavy prize like that of President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt and President Ben Ali of Tunisia who were deservingly thrown to the dust bin of history for their arrogance of ignoring genuine aspirations of the middle class. It is quite evident that the Indian political masters are equally and blissfully unaware that there is revolution sweeping though the fully interconnected world, the surging middle class will settle for nothing but honest, accountable, responsible government.
In Kannada there is a proverb that if you chuck a stone into a cesspool, the pool is bound to splash some slush on you! It doesn't take much insight to understand that everyone who is likely to lose power or wealth or name by the institution of a Lokpal Ombudsman will naturally try to scuttle Anna Hazare's movement. They will threaten, vilify and even harm the few who will join him. The forces of democracy can start a movement but to sustain it and bring about lasting change needs a nationally united commitment from those who wield power; however they also stand to lose their power and wealth if transparency is instituted and they are investigated. We Indians cannot think of anything being above self-interest. So there you have the real Catch 22.
Thanks for restoring some sense of balance in this charade called Indian politics. Hope more (common) people look up at the larger public good that could come out of this, rather than bickering on the individual personalities involved. I would like to sincerely see distinguished people like yourself and E Sreedharan show your support on TV, since unfortunately talking heads are all that seem to sway the great Indian middle class.
It is public secret that India is country of corruption from top to bottom. We are all fundamentally moneyminded and accumulating wealth for future generation. We have ample laws but no authority to enforce it. Basically our judicial system should be changed. It is very slow in deciding cases and delivering judgements. Without changing that, no lokpal bill shall be effective, If at all lokpal bill is passed powerful persons shall get bail to escape rigours of law. When we are going to change slow moving Legal system. One thing we should understand we have excellant judges who are honest holding future of India. So Anna Hajare should include this also.
Dr Raghavan - thanks for the eye opening article. Indeed only when all honest hard working people come together, this situation of corrupt politicians and bureaucrats can change otherwise it will doom as many other bills. The sad part is most people are happy to live their life as it is rather than giving it a go, I wish some big sports/television personalities lend their names for this noble cause, there will be a momentum to continue - only Anna Hazare cannot change out fate.
Dr.Raghavan. You've echoed the mindset of an average middle class Indian, which is the feeling that this is 'once' in a life time chance to root out the cancer of corruption in public life. Thanks to beloved Anna Hazare, millions of middle class Indians have been awakened and pulled themselves to the streets in a fight for right cause. This section of people cannot be easily bought by these smear campaigns by corrupt Amar Singhs or Digvijaya Sings. An all vigil and willing media is the need of the hour to keep and kindle this flame glowing until we could see desired results.
Mr Raghavan,A very good and timely article.We were all wondering the speed with which PM and his party agreed for redrafting the LOKPAL Bill and coopting members from Civil activists. Immediately after the announcement Mr Kapil Sibal who is representing the government made a stupid statement on possible effect of the Bill; This was followed by the release of CD on the Bhushans and the Bhushans continuing as representatives of Civil activists.Then comes Sonia's reply to Anna Hazare assuring that the Party and Government are serious on Lokpal Bill. Then the comments of Digvijay singh and his praise for Mr Amar Singh his 'brother'. We the ordinary people are completly confused on the turn of events.Suddenly CBI is issuing a statement that CD in question is genuine.What is the purpose of timing of this statement? All seems to be a mystery.Nothing is going to happen and the Indian people will forget and forgive the whole issue of corruption and the various scams and continue to worship the Living Gods.
A good and balanced article. However, I feel that Anna Hazare has been catapulted into centre stage in climes of Delhi rather too early. There sould have been simulatneous and sytematic orchestrated campaigns in major cities and the movement could have been made more representative. Now it looks as if it is some donnybrook between doddering old men and women from different groups in Delhi, who have enjoyed hitherto the benefits of the corruption tolerant systems. It would have had the force of Tahrir Square if it had been led by younger people. Anna Hazare is 73, Kiran Bedi 65 , Santosh Hegde about 70 Shanthi Bhushan 85. Prashant Bhushan 56 Only Arun Kejriwal is below 50. Although educated middle class youth have backed the movement unreservedly, sadly, they have been sidelined, probably on the basis of inexperience in the committee for drafting legislation.This is manifest lack of faith in the youth of this country by the self appointed members of the 'civil society'.
I also suspect when Anna embarked on this project his vision must have been limited to make an impact on corrupt politicians, businessmen and bureaucrats of Maharashtra. Although Anna Hazare is now riding the crest of the wave, the project as such is a long haul one, and much though I do not wish it to happen, I am afarid he would be grounded ere long.
Thanks for a sensible article. My answer to Dr Raghavan's question is: The battle definitely hasn't been lost. But, it's too premature to say it's been won either. We all know that the IndiaAgainstCorruption movement is taking on an extremely powerful enemy with almost unlimited resources. On the other hand, the resources of the people dwarf anything that the enemy can summon -- IF the people choose to act. So, whether or not the battle will be won will depend entirely on the urban middle-class of India, particularly the youth. There are several signs that make me optimistic: 1) The YUMs (young, urban middle-class) are completely engaged in this democratic process. Win or lose, that bodes very well for the future of democracy. I believe NOBODY who is even remotely interested in this fight will ever ignore their voting right in future. Also, the notion that laws passed by legislature fall out of the sky written on stone tablets has been shattered. People realizing that, in a democracy, they can and should pay attention to what gets to be a law is great for democracy. 2) The people are getting to see the true colors of their politicians. So far, many may have seen the politicians throw mud on each other and people didn't care too much because they knew pretty much both sides are in the dirt. But, now, the dirt is being thrown at true representatives of people. And, THAT won't be tolerated. (Speaking for myself, not too long ago, I was at a day-long conference on Indian democracy at University of California, Berkeley where Digvijay Singh was being all noble and erudite about Indian democracy. Now that I (and people of my ilk) know what Diggy Raja's real number is, he can't fool us any more.) 3) As expected, dirty tricks do some damage. Despite the 'paid news' media front-paging the allegations while giving no space to the facts refuting the allegations, it's heartening to see that the support base of IAC is pretty much intact. That speaks volumes about the maturity of the people and the trust these leaders inspire among people. Also, significantly, the Anna Hazare team is standing together and fighting back. I'd love nothing more than seeing Diggy Raja publicly apologizing for his lies.
Dr Raghavan being a Retired CBI Director must know better than average person. It is not the lack of Laws on the books that is the problem but it is utter disregard to the laws of the land and lack of independent Investigative and prosecuting authority. Dr Raghavan please be honest and tell us, in your public service how independent were you and what were you able to contribute to fight the corruption with existing laws? CBI is a joke and so are Public Prosecuting Agencies at state level along with our Law enforcement machinery. Having an unresponsive or a judiciary that works on a time scale of decades does not help. Exisitng Laws or lack there of is not the problem. Our India Penal code and CrPC dates back few centuries now. I also take exception to your grouping together every one that opposed to the way things were handled when forming the panel. This my way or Highway attitude is arrogant at best.
A somewhat specious argument, put forth by a few vested interests, runs along these lines. How can Anna Hazare and company stifle discussion on the format and future of the anti-corruption campaign? Dr Raghavan, are you suggesting that every one who opposes Mr Hazare's way of dealing things has a vested interest? How arrogant a view is this? Some of us do NOT have ANY vested interest but we DO disagree with the way the Panel was formed.
Well written article, it is time to show that our anguish against corruption is firm and just. If we leave Anna alone now, we will fail ourselves.
With all allegations being made against Bhushans, media seemed to have zeroed in on Bhushans. In case of the CD controversy, instead of questioning Bhushans first (i dont mean that they shouldn't be questioned), first Mulayam Singh and Amar Singh have to give clarifications and if Bhushans are forced to step down then even Mulayam Singh and Amar Singh have to step down from Politics. Strange that media have turned Amar Singh into a witness against the Bhushans. Similarly, in case of land allotment, Mayawati and UP Government have to give lot of clarifications before Bhushans. If land allotment is really a scam, then Mayawati government is the first that needs to go. Again media seems to be silent with regard to the role of Mayawait govt in land allotment.So in all, very strange things are going on.....
Well written and well timed article sir. This is a fitting reply to the crtics of Anna and the current anti-corruption movement. Critics are talking about morality and procedures followed by Anna which they label them "undemocratic" and "non-gandhian". But they forget that the current Indian situtaion is such where we (Indians) are not left with any option than to revolt. This is certainly the high time to get this bill passed, but then as you mentioned our masters wont't let it happen easily.
This article should have appeared a day before. Powerful people let their dogs bark and create confusion. It is clear without corruption, there is no attraction for politicians.
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