Almost three years after they went their separate ways, Anna Hazare and Arvind Kejriwal shared the stage at Jantar Mantar here on Tuesday with the Delhi Chief Minister extending full support to his guru’s agitation against the Centre’s land acquisition ordinance.
During his brief address, Mr. Kejriwal attacked the Union government, saying the controversial new law would make it a “property dealer” for rich corporates.
The coming together of the original anti-corruption crusaders galvanised the agitation that began on Monday. Tuesday’s rally saw a dramatic increase in numbers as rallies were held at two separate venues behind Jantar Mantar.
MDMK chief Vaiko and activist Medha Patkar shared the stage with Mr. Hazare. The rally was supported by farmers’ organisations associated with the CPI and the CPI(M).
AAP to back Anna’s protest with ‘heart and soul’
Delhi Chief Minster Arvind Kejriwal said here on Tuesday that he viewed anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare as a guru and father figure. He invited Mr. Hazare to the Delhi Secretariat on Wednesday to give a motivational talk to legislators and heads of departments.
He was speaking at Jantar Mantar during a protest organised by Mr. Hazare against the controversial land acquisition ordinance.
“Tomorrow, if Annaji comes to the Delhi Secretariat, his presence only will purify the place. I want him to come there and interact, at least for 10 minutes, with different members and officials of the government. It will guide us all,” Mr. Kejriwal said.
Mr. Kejriwal sat next to Mr. Hazare on stage.
Mr. Kejriwal said the AAP would support the movement with heart and soul. He said the Union government had already faced the brunt of people’s anger for its anti-poor policies as was reflected in the recent Delhi elections.
