The Centre had made an egregious error by arresting Anna Hazare and his followers for wishing to undertake a protest fast against corruption. The government had underestimated the support for Hazare . Thousands of protestors all over the country joined hands to come under the Gandhian’s banner. The government was then prompt in releasing him from judicial custody. But Hazare insisted on remaining in Tihar Jail and to carry on his protest. Public anger mounted and the opposition was on the warpath. The government had to give in. It was a disaster for the UPA’s image, showing the wide gap between Manmohan Singh’s government and the people. In an election held today, the UPA would have been up against it.
Of course, the government has only itself to thank for the present crisis. People are fed up with corruption. The UPA has presented a diluted Lokpal Bill in parliament. It is true that the Lokpal is no panacea for corruption. But the government has not come up with alternative measures. Hazare’s continuing fast should awaken it to the need of the hour. A new debate should start on corruption and the Lokpal Bill. Institutional checks and balances should be seriously considered. The government does not necessarily have to fall in line with Anna Hazare but it should spell out its criticism of the Lokpal Bill. Its existing anti-corruption measures should be reviewed. No shielding of corrupt politicians can be permitted. Judicial accountability is obligatory and law’s delay should be eliminated. The UPA government should realize that otherwise the whole situation will be grist to the BJP’s political mill.
