Hazare stays on anti-graft warpath
20 Aug 2011
Anna Hazare, the acknowledged leader of the movement for a strong anti-corruption bill, today continued to harangue the government, saying it has been trying for decades to avoid any serious anti-corruption measures.
Interacting with the media at the historic Ramlila Maidan, where he is carrying on his public fast-unto-death for strong anti-corruption measures amid massive nationwide support, the 73-year-old crusader said, "They (the government) have linked us to the US - next they will link our agitation to Pakistan."
He was referring to the ill-considered attack by a union minister who earlier this weak accused Hazare to be funded by US intelligence - the ubiquitous "foreign hand" defence that the Congress traditionally uses in such situations.
Team Anna also dismissed reports that the movement has got backing from any political party, or has links with any of them. "Our protest is not political, it is against corruption. Those who are saying the BJP and RSS are behind our agitation should be sent to a mental hospital," Hazare said.
Interacting with the media at the historic Ramlila Maidan, where he is carrying on his public fast-unto-death for strong anti-corruption measures amid massive nationwide support, the 73-year-old crusader said, "They (the government) have linked us to the US - next they will link our agitation to Pakistan."
He was referring to the ill-considered attack by a union minister who earlier this weak accused Hazare to be funded by US intelligence - the ubiquitous "foreign hand" defence that the Congress traditionally uses in such situations.
Team Anna also dismissed reports that the movement has got backing from any political party, or has links with any of them. "Our protest is not political, it is against corruption. Those who are saying the BJP and RSS are behind our agitation should be sent to a mental hospital," Hazare said.