Politica Career for Indian Youth- Can’t accept all demands on Lokpal: Salman Khurshid

Can’t accept all demands on Lokpal: Salman Khurshid

Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid has said all demands of Anna Hazare on the Lokpal Bill could not be accepted as a lot of other people think differently. He told reporters on the sidelines of a conference, Electoral Reforms in India - The Role of Intellectuals in Bangalore on Friday.He said Anna Hazare had a role to perform and it was legitimate, but he had to decide the limit of his exercise. Asked whether the Lokpal Bill undermined the autonomy of the CBI, Khurshid said the Government and other investigation agencies, including the Lokpal, would not interfere in the probes conducted by the CBI.

Poll dates for FIVE States announced

Poll dates for FIVE States announced

The Election Commission has announced poll dates for five states- Punjab, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Goa and Manipur. Briefing the reporters, Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Qureshi said

Assembly polls in Punjab and Uttarakhand will be single phased on January 30.

Qureshi said Uttar Pradesh elections will be seven-phased from February 4th to February 28th.

Second phase polling in the state will be on February 8th, third phase on February 11th, fourth phase on February 15th, fifth phase on February 19th, sixth phase on February 23rd and seventh phase on February 28th.

He said that elections in Goa will take place on March 3rd and Manipur on January 28th.

Mr. Qureshi said counting of votes in all five states will take place on March 4th.

New Lokpal Bill to be introduced in Lok sabha tomorrow

New Lokpal Bill to be introduced in Lok sabha tomorrow

A new Lokpal Bill will be introduced in the Lok Sabha on Thursday and the existing one will be withdrawn.

This was conveyed by government to main opposition BJP today along with the intention to have a three-day additional sitting of Parliament from December 27 to take up this crucial Bill. BJP gave its nod to this proposal.
Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee held a meeting on Wednesday with Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj, her counterpart in Rajya Sabha Arun Jaitley and BJP leader L K Advani to discuss the issue.
According to sources, Mukherjee conveyed to the BJP that the Lokpal Bill passed by the Cabinet last night can be circulated to MPs only Wednesday evening.
He also said that the existing Lokpal Bill- introduced in the Monsoon Session of Parliament will be withdrawn in Lok Sabha on Thursday and the new Bill introduced.
Mukherjee said that in this scenario, there is little option but to extend the Winter Session by three more days and discuss the Lokpal Bill from 27th to 29th of this month.
The Business Advisory Committee will meet on Wednesday evening to decide on the extension.
Reports say, Government is keen to ensure passage of Lokpal along with two crucial legislations- Judicial Accountability Bill and Whistleblower Protection Bill -- during the current session. But since only two days are left, it wants additional sitting after the Christmas break.

Group of Ministers Finalise the Draft Lokpal Bill

Group of Ministers Finalise the Draft Lokpal Bill

The Ministers group have finalised the draft of the Lok Pal bill. Union law Minister Salman Khurshid told reporters after a two and a half hour long meeting that the officials will prepare the final draft tonight. He added that the cabinet meeting scheduled later tonight may not take place. Mr. Khurshid said the government is clear on each point of the Lok Pal Bill and it is not working under any pressure.

He said that after the cabinet approval, the final call on the bill has to be taken by Parliament. He also said that it is also not necessary that the Parliament session will be extended.

The Meeting was attended by Home Minister P. Chidambaram, Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal and Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office V. Narayanasamy apart from the Law Minister.

It is reported that the meeting also discussed the autonomy of the Central Bureau of Investigation. 

Our reporter quoting sources in Parliamentary Affairs Ministry said, that the government is open to bring group 'C' employees under the ambit of Lokpal.

The Cabinet had on Sunday held preliminary discussions on the bill expected to be tabled in the current session of Parliament.

The Government has already made it clear that it is open to other ideas that emanated at the all-party meeting convened by the Prime Minister, along with the incorporation of recommendations made by the Parliamentary Standing Committee.

Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal said that the cabinet will take up the Lokpal bill for discussion and approval Tuesday morning.

He expressed the hope that there is by and large a political consensus on the bill and the anti-graft bill will be passed by Parliament in the current session.

The Minister elaborated that he is hopeful that all parties will accept the draft prepared by the government after thorough discussions and recommendations by the Parliamentary Standing Committee.

News- Black Money in Polls: CEC seeks Public Help

Black Money in Polls: CEC seeks Public Help

Chief Election Commissioner S. Y. Quraishi sought people's participation in checking use of black money in elections. In his convocation address at the Himachal Pradesh University in Shimla on Monday, he said the Election Commission’s aim was to hold free and fair elections in a crime-free environment with full participation of voters.

Dr Quairshi said people should act as the watchdogs in checking use of black money in the polls. He said the Election Commission would soon come up with a Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation wing that rolls out comprehensive community outreach and multi-media campaigns to bring all citizens in to electoral participation.

Government to bring Lokpal bill in next session of Parliament

Government to bring Lokpal bill in next session of Parliament: Khurshid

Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid has said that the government will bring a bill in the next session of Parliament to prevent people with criminal background to contest elections. Talking to media persons at Farrukhabad in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, he said, consultations with political parties have already taken place and discussions are on with other stake-holders in this regard.

Referring to social activist Anna Hazare's demand for Right to recall the elected representatives from Parliament and State Assemblies, he said it is not possible without taking political parties into confidence. He said, the governments will not take any unilateral decision on this issue.

News-SC reserves orders on SIT’s appointment

SC reserves orders on SIT’s appointment to probe black money issue

The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its orders on the maintainability of the Centre's plea for recall of its July 4 order appointing an SIT to probe the black money issue.

A bench of justices Altamas Kabir and S S Nijjar said it would pass appropriate orders on the maintainability plea on September 20.

Attorney General G E Vahanvati, in his brief intervention, said the order ought to be recalled as the Centre was proceeding in the right direction in unearthing the black money allegedly stashed away in foreign tax havens.

News-Social activist Anna Hazare ends his 12 day old fast

Social activist Anna Hazare ends his 12 day old fast

Social activist Anna Hazare ended his fast this morning on the 12th day after Parliament unanimously agreed in principle with his three demands to deal with corruption. The 74-year-old Hazare accepted a glass of tender coconut water mixed with honey from two little girls at the Ramlila Ground to end his fast that began on the 16th of August. Addressing the gathering Hazare said that he has just deferred his agitation but the fight will continue. Outlining his future agenda, he emphasized reforms in election and education systems and working for the betterment of farmers and labourers. He also sought decentralisation of power, saying the real power should rest with gram sabhas. He called upon the people to protect environment and reasonable use of natural resources for the sake of better future of next generation. He thanked all for this victory.

“I thank every body because the victory which has been received regarding the significant three issues in Jan Lokpal, is the victory of every countryman. It is the victory of you people who stood here”

After his brief address, the social activist was taken to a private Hospital atGurgaon for a medical check up and he is likely to remain there for a couple of days . Earlier, one of his close aides Arvind Kejriwal thanked the Parliamentarians and leaders of political parties for their support to the demands made by team Anna. Various political parties welcomed the ending of Anna Hazare's fast. Congress today said it is a "win-win situation" for all stakeholders. Talking to media persons in New Delhi, Union Law Minister and Senior Congress Leader Salman Khurshid said that the government wants a better system in the country to protect the interest of common man. He congratulated Mr Hazare for his totally peaceful and successful agitation. BJP spokesman Shahnawaz Hussain said that they will fully support setting up a strong and effective Lok Pal.JD(U) spokesman Shivanand Tiwary said that his party is committed to the eradication of corruption and for a strong Lok Pal.

News- Finance Minister is for a change in the system

Finance Minister says there is a need for a change in the system to fight corruption; Members also call for reforms in Judiciary

Winding up the debate in the Lok Sabha, Mr Mukherjee said there is a need for a change in the system to check corruption and the government is doing so. He, however, said one single law how much strong and empowered it may be cannot completely eradicate corruption.

“Lokpal bill alone cannot root out corruption. We need multi-layer laws to deal with the corruption at various level. In addition to the lokpal bill, we are willing to strengthen the judicial accountability bill, whistle blower's bill and the includes of Shri Anna Hazare and his associates will be taken into consideration. We are also working on a grievance redressal bill to tackle corruption at the local level”

Mr Mukherjee hoped that with the unanimous adoption of the resolution Anna Hazare will break the fast and the agitation will come to an end. Participating in the debate Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Mrs. Sushma Swaraj while pledging full support to the three demands of Team Anna called for bringing Prime Minister in its ambit with except for national security and public order and also advocated to bring a separate legislation for setting up the National Judicial Accountability commission.

Sandeep Dixit from Congress strongly supported the points brought into focus by the Finance Minister and pleaded for sometime to prepare the required mechanism for operationalisation of citizen charter. He also stressed the need to create a separate mechanism to deal with malpractices in corporate sectors and NGOs.

In the Rajya Sabha the Leader of the Opposition Mr. Arun Jaitley said that while framing the legislation, care should be taken so that there is no interference or overlapping of powers between the Centre and the States. He opined that the appointment and performance of Judges cannot be left to judges alone. Mr. Ashwani Kumar, Union Minister and Senior Congress leader opposed the proposal of Prime Minister's inclusion in the Lokpal. Agreeing with the basic premise that Lokayuktas need to be appointed in all States to deal with corruption he said it has to be implemented keeping in view the federal structure of the country. Several other prominent parliamentarians who participated in the in the two Houses, so far they include Mr. Sudeep Bandhopadhyay of TMC, Sharad Yadad , JDU, Revti Raman Singh ,SP, Dara Singh Chauhan, BSP, T.K. S. Elegovan, DMK, Sitaram Yechury, CPIM and Lalu Prassad ,JDU.

News- Finance Minister is for a change in the system

Finance Minister says there is a need for a change in the system to fight corruption; Members also call for reforms in Judiciary

Winding up the debate in the Lok Sabha, Mr Mukherjee said there is a need for a change in the system to check corruption and the government is doing so. He, however, said one single law how much strong and empowered it may be cannot completely eradicate corruption.

“Lokpal bill alone cannot root out corruption. We need multi-layer laws to deal with the corruption at various level. In addition to the lokpal bill, we are willing to strengthen the judicial accountability bill, whistle blower's bill and the includes of Shri Anna Hazare and his associates will be taken into consideration. We are also working on a grievance redressal bill to tackle corruption at the local level”

Mr Mukherjee hoped that with the unanimous adoption of the resolution Anna Hazare will break the fast and the agitation will come to an end. Participating in the debate Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Mrs. Sushma Swaraj while pledging full support to the three demands of Team Anna called for bringing Prime Minister in its ambit with except for national security and public order and also advocated to bring a separate legislation for setting up the National Judicial Accountability commission.

Sandeep Dixit from Congress strongly supported the points brought into focus by the Finance Minister and pleaded for sometime to prepare the required mechanism for operationalisation of citizen charter. He also stressed the need to create a separate mechanism to deal with malpractices in corporate sectors and NGOs.

In the Rajya Sabha the Leader of the Opposition Mr. Arun Jaitley said that while framing the legislation, care should be taken so that there is no interference or overlapping of powers between the Centre and the States. He opined that the appointment and performance of Judges cannot be left to judges alone. Mr. Ashwani Kumar, Union Minister and Senior Congress leader opposed the proposal of Prime Minister's inclusion in the Lokpal. Agreeing with the basic premise that Lokayuktas need to be appointed in all States to deal with corruption he said it has to be implemented keeping in view the federal structure of the country. Several other prominent parliamentarians who participated in the in the two Houses, so far they include Mr. Sudeep Bandhopadhyay of TMC, Sharad Yadad , JDU, Revti Raman Singh ,SP, Dara Singh Chauhan, BSP, T.K. S. Elegovan, DMK, Sitaram Yechury, CPIM and Lalu Prassad ,JDU.

News- Parliament unanimously agrees on a resolution of Team Anna

Parliament unanimously agrees on a resolution on three demands of Team Anna on Lokpal issue

Prospects of Anna Hazare breaking his 12 day fast have further brightened with Parliament unanimously agreeing to a resolution in principle to their three demands. Both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha agreed to the resolution conveying the sense of the two Houses on the demands of Team Anna. The demands included setting up of Lok Ayukatas at state levels, bringing lower bureaucracy under the ambit of the Lokpal and the charter that makes response of the government to citizen's issues time bound. Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said, both Houses also resolved that the resolution will be sent to the Standing Committee now looking into the Lokpal bill for its perusal.

“There is in principle agreement on Citizen's Charter, Lower Bureauracy to be brought under the Lokpal through appropriate mechanism, establishment of a Lokayukta in the states. Having agreed in principle this House, Madam Speaker, I will request you to transmit the entire proceedings of this House, to the relevent standing committee for their perusal to further their recommendations for the bill which will be able to sent to us for consideration at the appropriate time”

News-Rahul Gandhi Calls for Strengthening Lokpal by making Constitutional body

Rahul Gandhi Calls for Strengthening Lokpal by making Constitutional body

AICC General Secretary and Member of Parliament, Rahul Gandhi on Friday called for a stronger Lokpal by making it a Constitutional body like the Election Commission. He said a comprehensive framework of action and a concerted political programme is essential to deal effectively with the menace of corruption. Rahul thanked, Anna Hazare saying Anna has helped articulate public sentiment against corruption.

Making a statement in the Loksabha on Friday he asserted that the real question before the members of Parliament is to take the battle against corruption head-on. He said, corruption can't be wished away, as it will require a comprehensive programme of action. He said, he had serious doubts about the perception that the enactment of a single bill will eradicate corruption.

Rahul said, Lokpal alone cannot be a substitute to anti-corruption code and a set of effective laws is required covering various fields. He said, these include government funding of elections and political parties, transparency in public procurement, proper regulation of sectors fueling corruption like land in mining, tax reforms and grievance redressal mechanism in public service delivery.

He urged public representatives to work together to ensure parliament functions at its optimum capacity and enacts these laws in a just and time bound manner.

He cautioned that a tactical incursion divorced from the machinery of an elected government that seeks to undo the checks and balances to protect the supremacy of Parliament sets a dangerous precedent for a democracy.

He reminded that today it is a proposed law against corruption, tomorrow it can be an issue that attacks the plurality of the society and democracy. He called for moving democracy deeper into villages and cities and urged the members to commit themselves to truth and probity in public life.

Speaking to reporters outside parliament, Rahul Gandhi said that his proposal to set up an Election Commission like body to deal with the menace of corruption is a game changing idea.

News- Parliament likely to discuss various versions of Lokpal Bill

Parliament likely to discuss various versions of Lokpal Bill today; Anna Hazare fast enters 11^th day

Parliament is likely to discuss the Lokpal bill today. Talking to reporters after a high level meeting at Prime Minister's residence, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal said the government has decided to put all the drafts proposed for Lokpal bill for discussions in Parliament including Jan Lok Pal bill and the document prepared by Aruna Roy and others for a stringent anti-corruption bill.

He added that government is exploring options to hold discussions on a three sticky points emerged in the talks with team Anna. These points include discussions on adoption of citizen charter, establishment of state Lokayukta and inclusion of lower bureaucracy under the ambit of Lokpal.

Meanwhile, hectic parleys are on to break the logjam over the shape of the Lokpal Bill. Four rounds of talks have already been held between Team Anna and the Government. Union Minister of Science and Technology Shri Vilasrao Deshmukh met Anna Hazare to break the impasse.

The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and leaders from all other political parties in the Lok Sabha requested Anna Hazare to end his fast. Dr. Manmohan Singh said that Anna Hazare has registered his protest and he should end his fast.

The BJP, after initial reluctance, announced its support to the Team Anna Lokpal bill. Senior party leader Arun Jaitley after meeting with representatives of Anna Hazare last night said that his party also want strong Lokpal bill but it should be adhered to the constitution.

After a high level meeting at New Delhi on Thursday night, Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said that the dialogue with team Anna will continue and requested social activist Anna Hazare to end his fast as requested unanimously across the spectrum.

Union Law Minister Salman Khurshid said that with the approval of Parliament the full draft of the Lokpal Bill will be sent to Standing Committee for its consideration so that a strong Lokpal bill can be formed having maximum consensus.

Meanwhile, Anna Hazare's fast has entered 11th day today. However, the health condition of Anna Hazare is stable. Dr. Naresh Trehan, who is monitoring his health, informed last evening that Anna has lost over six kgs. of weight.

News- Government calls all party meet to solve Lokpal issue

Government calls all party meet to solve Lokpal issue

Government has convened an all-party meeting tomorrow to find a way to solve the Lok Pal issue. Leaders of all political parties have been invited to attend the meet scheduled for 3.30 pm tomorrow. No headway has been made so far in the talks between the government and the Civil Society activists in the behind the scene talks. Official sources said, government is of the view that some of the demands put forth by Hazare and his associates, require a wider political consensus before a decision could be taken. In a related development, the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today held a detailed meeting with the Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, looking into the Lokpal Bill. Singhvi had yesterday said that difference between the government and Hazare on Lokpal Bill were more to do with methodology rather than content and said, the Committee is open to all kinds of opinions and inputs to send a strong and acceptable Lokpal Bill back to Parliament. Congress Member Praveen Singh Aron has already submitted a copy of Hazare's Jan Lokpal Bill for consideration of the Committee.

A close aide of Anna, Arvind Kejriwal has suggested that government should either withdraw the official Bill or amend it by including provisions of the Jan Lokpal Bill. However, he said, Hazare has not insisted that he will talk only with Prime Minister or Congress.

The fast of Anna Hazare entered the 8th day today. Doctors have advised him not to venture into the sun as it could have a negative impact on his health.

Nine non-BJP, non-Congress, political parties are observing a nationwide protest today against the government's version of the Lokpal Bill. The Members of Parliament belonging to these parties held a protest demonstration in front of the statue of Mahatama Gandhi in Parliament complex this morning. They were demanding an effective legislation to end corruption in high places.

News-Government open to reasoned debate on Lokpal

Government open to reasoned debate on Lokpal: PM

The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has said that the government is opened to a reasoned debate on all issues of Lokpal Bill. Delivering the Golden jubilee lecture of the Indian Institute of Management, Kolkata, Dr. Singh said that there are differences of views on the details of the Bill and the Parliamentary Standing Committee looking into the bill has the power to propose any amendment.

The Prime Minister asserted that creation of a Lokpal alone will not solve the problem of corruption and it needs to be supported by improvements in the pace and quality of Judicial processes.

He added speedy trials and timely judgements will do a great deal to discourage corruption and dispel the notion that those who break the law can get away scot free.
The Prime Minister will inaugurate the diamond jubilee celebration and also address the 57th Annual Convocation of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharakhpur in West Midnapoor district on Monday afternoon.

News-Prime Minister confident of systematic solution

Prime Minister expresses confidence of systematic solution to increase transparency in decision making

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that government will come up with systematic solutions to increase transparency in decision making.

The Prime Minister said, he has asked the group of ministers to look into the issues of revamping existing government procedures to reduce discretion and to make the basis of decision making as transparent as possible.

Dr. Singh said, governance failures in combating the challenge of corruption is at the forefront of the public concern and this needs to be addressed which has occupied centre stage in the perception of many concerned citizens.

Dr. Singh said, a new legislation is on the anvil to strengthen the regulatory mechanism. He said that the funding of election is yet another area which also calls for reforms to reduce the scope for generation of black money.

The Prime minister hopes that the country will be able to achieve nine per cent growth in next five years plan which needs inherent economic strength.

News- news-Government for strong Lokpal Bill and open to discussion

Prime Minister says Government for strong Lokpal Bill and open to discussion

Prime Minister says, the Government is for a strong Lok Pal Bill and open to discussion on the issue. Calling for a broad national consensus , Dr.Manmohan Singh expressed the hope that the government can enlist the cooperation of all thinking segments of public opinion to ensure that the end product is a strong and effective Lokpal which all sections of our community want. The Prime Minister was replying questions from the media at the conclusion of the full meeting of the Planning Commission to approve the Approach Paper of the 12th Five Year Plan.

Dr.Singh said the government has presented a Lokpal Bill which was the demand of all political parties. On the passage of the Lok Pal bill Dr Singh hoped that people will appreciate that there is a dynamic of the legislative process which takes time sometimes. Certain stages have to be crossed. Therefore, he said, it may not be possible to pass the bill by the end of this month. But, he said, he will not like to say or oppose anything else that has been said by somebody else.
The Congress Party has already indicated that it is not averse to talk to Team Anna if it formally approaches the government over the Lokpal issue.

Meanwhile, a Parliamentary panel has sought public opinion and suggestions on the Lokpal Bill. The panel has given a deadline of 15 days to the general public and organisations to send their feedback on the measure which proposes to create an anti-corruption watchdog.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Law and Justice and Personnel has today issued an advertisement giving out salient features of the Bill. The bill was introduced in Parliament on fourth of this month and soon after it was referred to the Standing Committee giving it three months to come up with its recommendations. 

Social activist Anna Hazare continued his fast at Ram Lila ground on fifth day today to press for his demand for a strong Lokpal. He is also demanding reforms in the electoral process. Members of Team Anna today said that they are open to hold talks with the Government. They however said there is no indication from the government

News- All shortcomings of Lokpal Bill will be looked into: Congress

All shortcomings of Lokpal Bill will be looked into: Congress

Congress on Thursday said that all the shortcomings of the Lokpal Bill will be looked into by the Standing Committee of Parliament. Briefing reporters in New Delhi, party Spokesperson Renuka Chowdhary said that the Government has already considered various demands of the civil society and the bill will be debated upon in detail after the Standing Committee submits its recommendations.

News-Rajya Sabha adopts impeachment motion for Justice Soumitera Sen’s removal as Judge of Calcutta High Court

Rajya Sabha adopts impeachment motion for Justice Soumitera Sen’s removal as Judge of Calcutta High Court

The Rajya Sabha on Thursday adopted an impeachment motion to remove the Judge of Calcutta High Court, Justice Soumitera Sen from the post for misappropriation of funds and misrepresentation of facts. The motion moved by Mr. Sitaram Yechuri of the CPIM was adopted by more than two-third of the members present in the House. The Chairman of the House, Mohd. Hamid Ansari announced that 189 members voted in favour of the motion and 17 against.

Participating in the two-day debate, the members cutting across party lines called for judicial reforms and setting up of a Judicial Commission for transparency and effective functioning of the judicial system.

The debate on the motion was initiated by leader of the opposition in the House, Mr. Arun Jaitley who tore into the Justice Somitera Sen’s defence, saying that the latter had misled the House. Continuing his argument Mr Jaitley, said that he had gone through the entire evidence in the judge's case and found it to be in tandem with the inquiry that proved misappropriation of funds by the Judge.

Justice Sen of the Calcutta High Court had, in his defence on Wednesday asserted that he was not guilty of financial irregularities and the allegations of misconduct and misappropriation of funds against him were aimed at victimising him in a pre-determined move.

The House resumed discussion on the motion Thursday afternoon. Opposing the motion Satish Mishra of BSP put across his argument making a case in his defence. Members from different political parties including ruling and opposition participated in the debate to support the motion.

A special committee constituted by Rajya Sabha chairman Hamid Ansari had found charges of financial irregularities against Justice Sen to be correct. He is accused of misappropriating nearly 24 lakh rupees in the 1990s when he was a lawyer and was appointed receiver by the Calcutta High Court.

It is also to be noted that this is the second time that an impeachment motion for removal of a Judge has been taken up by Parliament. In 1993, the Lok Sabha took up the motion to remove Justice V. Ramaswamy of Supreme Court but the motion fell through.

News-Hazare accepts police proposal to fast for 14 days

Hazare accepts police proposal to fast for 14 days

Social activist Anna Hazare has accepted the Delhi Police proposal to fast for 14 days at Ramlila Maidan beginning today. With this the deadlock between Hazare and Delhi police over the duration of his fast has come to an end.

Anna's associate Kiran Bedi said that Anna has accepted the Delhi Police permission for two weeks of fast. She said Anna will be at the Ramlila Ground after 3PM. Bedi said the conditions which were earlier unacceptable to Anna team have been removed by the Delhi police.
A Delhi police spokesperson told that the breakthrough came following the meeting of Hazare aides- Bedi, Prashant Bhushan, Manish Sisodia and Arvind Kejriwal with Delhi Police Commissioner B K Gupta shortly after midnight.
Anna is likely to leave Tihar jail Thursday afternoon.

News-Anna Hazare released from Tihar jail

Anna Hazare released from Tihar jail

Social activist Anna Hazare along with his associates has been released from Tihar jail. Confirming this Public Relation Officer of Tihar Jail Sunil Gupta said that Team Anna has been released after receiving proper orders from Delhi Police.

Mr. Gupta informed that Anna Hazare has refused to come out of jail unless he is allowed to carry out his indefinite fast at JP Park in the National capital. His other associates have already come out of the jail.

Mr. Hazare was taken into custody yesterday morning on grounds of apprehension of breach of peace following his intention to defy prohibitory orders to go on indefinite fast. Later he was sent to Jail after he was produced before a Special Executive Magistrate and refused to give the undertaking.

Anna's associates Kiran Bedi and Shanti Bhushan, who were detained, were also released.
Earlier, Opposition Parties had demanded immediate release of Anna Hazare. They also demanded a statement from the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in Parliament on his arrest. The demand was made after a meeting of leaders of various political parties including Sitaram Yechuri of CPM, Gurudas Dasgupta and D.Raja of CPI, Shailendra Kumar of Samajwadi Party, Raghuvamsh Prasad Singh of RJD and Mysoora Reddy of TDP besides NDA partners.

Talking to reporters following the meeting, CPIM leader Seetaram Yechury said that they wanted the Prime Minister to explain the government's action in both the Houses.

In a separate briefing, senior BJP leader, Mrs Sushma Swaraj echoed similar sentiments. However, there was no consensus amongst the opposition parties on boycotting the parliament on the issue.

Strongly defending Anna Hazare's custody, the Home Minister Mr. P.Chidambaram had earlier said that the government was not happy with the conditions imposed by the Delhi Police.

But it was a painful decision to detain Anna as he and his supporters had made it public that they will defy the prohibitory orders.

Mr. Chidambaram however made it clear that the government is not against holding any demonstration or peaceful protest.

Talking to a private TV channel, Information and Broadcasting minister Ambika Soni, asserted that only Jan Lokpal Bill will not root out corruption. She said, the anguish of the people is understandable and several measures have to be taken for combating the menace of corruption.

News-PM calls for confronting corruption on all fronts

PM calls for confronting corruption on all fronts

The nation is celebrating 65th Independence Day today with the Prime Minister giving a clarion call for confronting corruption on all fronts. Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort after unfurling the tricolour this morning, Dr. Manmohan Singh reaffirmed government's commitment for a strong Lokpal to prevent corruption in high places. But, he made it clear that resorting to hunger strikes and fast unto death will not help. Top priority to deal with inflation, a transparent law on Land Acquisition, strict vigilance against terrorism and extremism and an education commission are the other highlights of the Prime Minister's speech.

Dealing at length on corruption, Dr. Singh said, no single big step will be able to deal with the menace.

There is need for improving justice delivery system to tackle the menace and a Judicial Accountability Bill has been introduced in Parliament for this. A Public Procurement Legislation is also on the anvil to check corruption in government purchases.
Sharing the concern over the issue, the Prime Minister said while considering the matter an atmosphere should not be created to bring the country's progress into question. Calling for understanding and restraint, Dr. Singh said that the security and integrity of the country will get affected otherwise. One should rise against personal and political interests and build consensus on issues of national importance. Dr. Singh referred to the differences of opinion on the Lokpal Bill and said that those who do not agree with the Bill can put forward their views to Parliament, political parties and the media. But he said only Parliament can decide what type of Lokpal legislation should be enacted. He felt it inappropriate to bring judiciary under the ambit of Lokpal as it would erode its independence.
Dr. Manmohan Singh said, there is a need to improve justice delivery system to punish the corrupt quickly. Saying there is no magic wand to eradicate corruption, he wanted all political parties to stand shoulder to shoulder to fight the menace. The Prime Minister exuded confidence that the fight against corruption will be won only when every citizens cooperate in the battle.

News-Delhi Police rejects permission for Anna Hazare's indefinite fast

Delhi Police rejects permission for Anna Hazare's indefinite fast

Delhi Police today rejected permission for Anna Hazare's indefinite fast in the National Capital. Delhi Police spokesperson Rajan Bhagat said that the affidavit submitted by Hazare team was incomplete as they did not restrict themselves to the time limit of three days and the number of protestors to 5,000.

The police move to reject the application came soon after the Hazare team submitted an undertaking leaving six out of the 22 conditions laid out by Delhi Police for granting permission for the fast at the park.

News- Centre steps up efforts to unearth black money

Centre steps up efforts to unearth black money in country

Government steps up efforts to unearth black money in the country and prevent tax evasion. This includes scrutiny of tax returns, surveys, imposition of penalty and launching of prosecution in appropriate cases. Official sources said, Information Technology is also being used in collection, collation and dissemination of taxpayer information. The Income Tax Department has also set up an Integrated Taxpayer Data Management System to electronically collate Information collected from various sources.

The sources said that Information is received from Financial Intelligence Unit under the Department of Revenue regarding suspicious transactions from various banks and financial institutions. This information is thoroughly being investigated by the Department. Besides, the Department has set up two specialized wings to investigate and assess the cases of foreign companies, expatriates and non-residents indians.

News- LokPal Bill introduced in Parliament

Lokpal Bill introduced in Lok Sabha

The Lokpal Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha today by the Minister of State for Personnel, Mr. V.Narayansamy. The proposed legislation will pave the way for creating a mechanism for citizens to approach newly created anti- corruption watchdog with complaints against officials, bureaucrats and Union Ministers.
When the Bill was introduced, the leader of the Opposition in the House, Sushma Swaraj questioned why the Prime Minister is not under the ambit of Lokpal. Mr. Narayansamy in response said that the decision will have to be taken by the House.
The Lokpal will have a Chairman with eight members to assist him. The post of Prime Minister and Senior Judiciary has been kept out of the ambit of the Bill.
The Bill will now go to the Parliamentary Standing Committee for detailed discussions and review before it comes for approval of the House. Earlier, Law Minister Salman Khurshid said the civil society activists led by Anna Hazare, should not take any extreme step in protest against the Lokpal Bill. Talking to reporters in New Delhi today, he said everyone should have faith in Parliament which will take a final decision on the Bill.

News- Karnataka Chief Minister Yeddyurappa resigns

Yeddyurappa resigns, backs Sadananda Gowda

as successor

Karnataka chief minister BS Yeddyurappa finally tendered his  resignation officially on Sunday. He handed over the copy of resignation to governor H R Bhardwaj at 4.15 pm ending his tumultuous 38-month tenure.

Yeddyurappa thanked people and party for giving him an opportunity to rule the state. "I am satisfied by the work I have done. I will continue to strive to strengthen the party," he told reporters.

In a show of strength to the party high command, Yeddyurappa walked to the Raj Bhavan from his residence along with a host of ministers, MPs and MLAs to tender resignation. He flashed his trademark victory symbol before entering the Raj Bhavan.

News- BJP Parliamentary Board asks Yeddyurappa to resign

BJP Parliamentary Board asks Yeddyurappa to resign

In Karnataka, BJP National General Secretary Dharmendra Pradhan said in Bangalore on Thursday that the legislative party meeting convened on Friday will take a unanimous decision on the leadership in the state. State Party President K S Eeswarappa said a whip has been issued to all party MLAs to participate in Friday's meeting. BJP leaders Rajnath Singh and Arun Jailtely are reaching Bangalore Friday morning to implement the Parliamentary Board decision of the party.
The BJP Parliamentary Board had earlier asked Karnataka Chief Minister Yeddyurappa to step down immediately. Party spokesperson Ravishankar Prasad said that all senior leaders of the party have unanimously decided that the leadership of the Karnataka BJP legislature party should be changed.

Meanwhile, the leader of the Opposition in Karnataka and Congress party leader Siddaramaiah has requested the Governor to initiate action against Chief Minister Yeddyurappa and all others named in the Lokayukta report on illegal mining. He said the case should be handed over to the CBI. Speaking to media persons in Bangalore, he said the Lokayukta report has named four ministers and 787 officials responsible for illegal mining in the state and hence the BJP government in the state has no moral right to continue.

After the Party Parliamentary Board decision to drop Yeddyurappa as Chief Minister of Karnataka, speculation is rife about his successor. Several names are being taken but officially no successor of Yeddyurappa is announced. The Reddy brothers and their close associate Sriramulu who are mine owners and powerful ministers are implicated by Lokayukta. They have said that they will abide by party decision. The first chief minister of the BJP in south India B S Yeddyurappa took reign of the State Government in May 2008. Another 22 months still remain, as the term of the current state legislative assembly will last till May 2013.

News-Cabinet approves draft Lokpal Bill

Cabinet approves draft Lokpal Bill

The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved the enactment of a new legislation, in the form of Lokpal Bill-2011 to inquire into the allegations of corruption. Briefing the media, after a meeting of the cabinet, the Information and Broadcasting Minister, Mrs. Ambika Soni said the bill will be introduced in Monsoon session of Parliament beginning on Monday. The Prime Minister and the higher judiciary will not come under the purview of the Lokpal Bill but the former Prime Ministers have been brought under its ambit.

She said the Lokpal will constitute of a Chairperson and eight members, half of them will be judicial members. The Bill provides for the establishment of the institution of Lokpal to inquire into the allegations of corruption. The Lokpal will also have powers to attach the property of corrupt public servants acquired through corrupt means. In reply to a question, Law minister Salman Khursheed said, Lokpal will have separate wings on inquiry and investigation but no power to prosecute. Mr Khursheed said Prosecution has to be done by judiciary. He said that the draft legislation, which has included some of the provisions of the Jan Lokpal Bill proposed by Team Anna Hazare, gives permission to Lokpal to probe any Union Minister or officials of Group A and above without any sanction.

news- 300 Political Parties never filed Income Tax

300 Registered Political Parties never filed Income Tax Return

A country-wide probe conducted by the Income Tax Department has found that 300 registered political parties have never filed their income tax returns. The Election Commission has now directed the Income Tax Department to issue notices to them. The EC asked the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) to ascertain the financial status of these small parties for alleged violation of tax laws and money laundering. The CBDT conducted a probe on this issue and has submitted a report to the election panel. A number of political parties also do not possess permanent account or PAN numbers. It was alleged that people are floating such political parties in large numbers to evade taxes as the donations to them are exempted from income tax.

News- President calls for war against black money

President calls for war against black money

The President Mrs. Pratibha Devisingh Patil today said that the war against black money has to be fought both domestically and through cross border measures. Speaking at the concluding ceremony of the year long celebrations commemorating 150 years of Income Tax in the country, Mrs. Patil emphasized for better global co-operation to track down evaders taking shelter in other countries.

The President said, an environment of voluntary tax compliance has to be fostered and nurtured in the country. She said, the importance of meeting tax obligations has to be ingrained in the minds of children as they can be made tax responsible citizens of tomorrow. Speaking on broad policy issues on taxation, Mrs. Patil said the interface with compliant taxpayers, especially small taxpayers, senior citizens and pensioners must be initiated and maintained on a continuous basis, for a feedback on difficulties being faced by them. She said the use of electronic modes for filing returns should be further popularised for greater efficiency.
The President expressed confidence that with the widening of the present taxpayer base by about 3.5 crore taxpayers, the direct tax-to-GDP ratio will rise beyond the present figure of 6.1 per cent.

The President also released a book on the completion of 150 years of Income Tax.
Speaking on the occasion, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said, E- governance initiatives are being taken for better management of taxes. He said direct tax collection is about 56 per cent of total tax collection. Mr. Mukherjee said the Direct tax code, DTC, when enacted, will further simplify tax regime and will be more transparent and tax payer friendly.

News-Govt files review petition in SC on Black Money

Govt files review petition in Supreme Court on black money case

The Union government today filed a review petition in the Supreme Court seeking to recall and reconsider its earlier judgement of handing over the investigation in black money case to Special Investigating Team (SIT).

A bench comprising Justices B Sudarshan Reddy (since retired) and S S Nijjar had appointed SIT headed by former Supreme Court judge B P Jeevan Reddy to investigate the black money case. Another retired Supreme Court judge M B Shah was made the Vice-Chairman of SIT and the government appointed high power committee headed by Union revenue secretary who was also made part of SIT. The Union government in its review petition has contended that the job of investigation into an offence is the job of statutory investigation agency and such agency cannot be subjected to the supervision of retired judges, bureaucrats or private individuals and such a course amounts to expressing lack of faith in the investigating agency. The Union government has prayed for stay of the operation of the SIT order passed on July 5. The government has also pleaded that the matter may be referred to a larger bench.

News- Supreme Court appoints special Investigation team on black money issue

Supreme Court appoints SIT to probe black money cases

The Supreme Court has appointed a high-level Special Investigation Team, SIT, headed by former apex court judge B P Jeevan Reddy to monitor the investigation and the steps being taken to bring back black money stashed away in foreign banks.

Besides Justice Reddy, who will be the Chairman of the SIT, the apex court also appointed its former judge, Justice M B Shah as the Vice-Chairman of the panel.

A Bench comprising Justices B Sudershan Reddy and S S Nijjar directed that the High-Level Committee constituted by the government to look into the issue of black money, would "forthwith" be a part of the SIT.

The Bench also directed the government to disclose the names of all the persons who have been issued show cause notices by the authorities in connection with the probe into the black money issue.

The Court, however, made it clear that the authorities would not disclose the names of those who have not been investigated in connection with deposits made in foreign banks including Liechtenstein bank.

The Court passed the order on a petition filed by eminent jurist Ram Jethmalani and others seeking directions to the government to track black money stashed away abroad and bring it back.

The BJP today welcomed the Supreme Court decision to appoint a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a former Supreme Court judge to investigate the black money case. Party spokesman Prakash Javadekar said the action of the Supreme Court showed that even the judiciary felt that nothing much was done by the government to bring back the black money stashed abroad.

News-Consensus on strong and effective Lokpal Bill

All Party Meet Meet- Consensus on strong and effective Lokpal Bill
An all party meeting convened by the Prime Minister in New Delhi last evening agreed that the government should bring before the next session of Parliament a strong and effective Lokpal Bill following the established procedures.

According to the sources, who attended the meeting, the political parties have asked the government to first table the bill in Parliament so that a proper discussion on the issue could follow.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Prime Minister reiterated government's commitment to enact a Lokpal Act, which provides for a strong, effective and quick institutional arrangement for tackling corruption at high places.

Dr Manmohan Singh reaffirmed that the bill will be presented before Parliament in the coming Monsoon Session.

Urging the parties to arrive at the widest possible consensus, he assured that their views will be appropriately taken into account while presenting a suitable bill in Parliament.

Acknowledging that the corruption is a major issue today, the Prime Minister drew the attention of the political parties to the fact that there are enough legal and institutional arrangements in place to tackle corruption.

Dr Manmohan Singh noted that there is a feeling that the institutional arrangements in place are not strong enough to ensure that the guilty, especially those occupying high positions, are brought to book swiftly and given deterrent punishment.

The Prime Minister emphasised that to achieve the objective, the Lokpal has to work in harmony with other institutions and laws and within the framework of the basic structure of the Constitution.

He underlined that the Constitution provides for an intricate system of checks and balances and the new institution of Lokpal has to find an appropriate place in that matrix.

Dr Manmohan Singh had convened the meeting of all political parties in the backdrop of differences between the representatives of government and civil society in the drafting committee on certain provisions of the bill.

After the meeting, BJP leader Sushma Swaraj said her party did not agree with a number of provisions of government's Lokpal bill like selection and jurisdiction. She said, BJP will present views on Lokpal bill when it is discussed in Parliament.

The meeting was attended by Congress President Sonia Gandhi, union ministers - Pranab Mukherjee, P Chidambaram, Kapil Sibal, M Veerappa Moily, Salman Khurshid and Pawan Kumar Bansal. Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar and Heavy Industries Minister Praful Patel (both NCP), and T R Baalu (DMK) were among UPA constituents to attend the deliberations.

The Opposition was represented by BJP leaders L K Advani, Sushma Swaraj and Arun Jaitley, NDA Convenor and JD (U) chief Sharad Yadav, S S Dhindsa of SAD, Sitaram Yechury (CPI-M), Gurudas Dasgupta and D Raja (both CPI), Lalu Prasad (RJD) and V Maitreyan and M Thambidurai (both AIADMK), S C Mishra (BSP) and Ram Gopal Yadav (SP) at the meeting.

The government is learnt to have presented to the parties a comparative draft of the provisions of the Lokpal Bill suggested by the civil society and those put forward by the five union ministers in the Joint Drafting Committee.

News-Centre appoints new CVC

Centre appoints New Chief Vigilance Commissioner Appointed

Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar has been chosen to be next Chief Vigilance Commissioner. Pradeep Kumar, who retires as Defence Secretary on the 31st of this month was chosen by consensus by a panel comprising Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Home Minister P Chidambaram and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj. But his selection has been not been officially announced as yet. Mr.Kumar, a Haryana cadre IAS officer of the 1972 batch, was Secretary, Defence Production, before taking over as Defence Secretary.

News-Jayalalithaa against PM falling under Lokpal radar

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa against PM falling under Lokpal radar

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa said last Monday that the proposed anti-graft Lokpal bill should exclude the prime minister from its ambit as it would undermine his authority and could be used by foreign powers to destabilise the government.

In an interview to Times Now channel, she said: 'The proposed Lokpal bill should exclude the prime minister as he is already covered under the Prevention of Corruption Act. Any misconduct by the prime minister can be investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation.'
'Lokpal could be used by foreign powers to destabilise the government,' she said.
According to her, bringing the prime minister under the Lokpal's ambit would dent his authority as he will be on the defensive when Lokpal would investigate a complaint.
Jayalalithaa said the functioning of the Lokpal, with powers to probe complaints against the prime minister, would pave the way for a parallel government which will undermine the prime minister's authority.
She said the state would formulate its view only after the bill is placed before parliament. Referring to her offer of support to the central government last November, Jayalalithaa said it was not a standing offer. The one-time offer was made in a particular context, in a particular situation and that situation did not exist now.

News-Prime Minister Says that the Government committed to take steps to deal with black money

Government committed to take steps to deal with black money: Prime Minister Dr.Manmohan Singh
Government is committed to taking all possible steps to deal with black money, tax evasion and corruption in the country. Speaking to a group of select editors in New Delhi today Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said, that it is not a one-shot operation. Dr. Singh said, he had no hesitation in bringing his office under the purview of Lokpal. However, many of his Cabinet colleagues felt that bringing the institution of Prime Minister under Lokpal would create instability

Lokpal existing and proposed a comparision

Lokpal Draft Bll Existing and Proposed by the Civil Society - A Comparision and few doubts

Existing System ( Ex)

System Proposed by civil society ( Pro)
1

Ex No politician or senior officer ever goes to jail despite huge evidence because Anti Corruption Branch (ACB) and CBI directly come under the government. Before starting investigation or initiating prosecution in any case, they have to take permission from the same bosses, against whom the case has to be investigated.

Pro Lokpal at centre and Lokayukta at state level will be independent bodies. ACB and CBI will be merged into these bodies. They will have power to initiate investigations and prosecution against any officer or politician without needing anyone’s permission. Investigation should be completed within 1 year and trial to get over in next 1 year. Within two years, the corrupt should go to jail.

2

Ex No corrupt officer is dismissed from the job because Central Vigilance Commission, which is supposed to dismiss corrupt officers, is only an advisory body. Whenever it advises government to dismiss any senior corrupt officer, its advice is never implemented.

Pro Lokpal and Lokayukta will have complete powers to order dismissal of a corrupt officer. CVC and all departmental vigilance will be merged into Lokpal and state vigilance will be merged into Lokayukta.

3

Ex No action is taken against corrupt judges because permission is required from the Chief Justice of India to even register an FIR against corrupt judges.

Pro Lokpal & Lokayukta shall have powers to investigate and prosecute any judge without needing anyone’s permission.

4

Ex Nowhere to go - People expose corruption but no action is taken on their complaints.

Pro Lokpal & Lokayukta will have to enquire into and hear every complaint.

5

Ex There is so much corruption within CBI and vigilance departments. Their functioning is so secret that it encourages corruption within these agencies.

Pro All investigations in Lokpal & Lokayukta shall be transparent. After completion of investigation, all case records shall be open to public. Complaint against any staff of Lokpal & Lokayukta shall be enquired and punishment announced within two months.

6

Ex Weak and corrupt people are appointed as heads of anti-corruption agencies.

Pro Politicians will have absolutely no say in selections of Chairperson and members of Lokpal & Lokayukta. Selections will take place through a transparent and public participatory process.

7 

Ex Citizens face harassment in government offices. Sometimes they are forced to pay bribes. One can only complaint to senior officers. No action is taken on complaints because senior officers also get their cut.

Pro Lokpal & Lokayukta will get public grievances resolved in time bound manner, impose a penalty of Rs 250 per day of delay to be deducted from the salary of guilty officer and award that amount as compensation to the aggrieved citizen.

8

Ex -Nothing in law to recover ill gotten wealth. A corrupt person can come out of jail and enjoy that money.

Pro- Loss caused to the government due to corruption will be recovered from all accused.

9

Ex-Small punishment for corruption- Punishment for corruption is minimum 6 months and maximum 7 years.

Pro -Enhanced punishment - The punishment would be minimum 5 years and maximum of life imprisonment.

Other questions to be answered to the Public are

How the Chair persons and members of Lokpal & Lokayukta are appointed?

What will be process of selection?

If it is by nomination by elected representatives of people, wouldn't it amount to political appointment?

If it is by election by people, wouldn't it be a political election?

How do we avoid political intervention in the selection process in a Democratic country?

How do we segregate corrupt and non-corrupt politicians and keep away the corrupt ones from the selection process of Office Bearers of Lokpal?

What checks we can implement to avoid autocratic way of functioning of these bodies, if they are not accountable to people?

Are we heading for a new system of government, by curtailing the power of governance of the people's representatives in the democratic system?

If we appoint a parallel authority to decide on matters of importance, how effective would be our government?

Wouldn't it mean that we do not trust our political system?

If we don't trust our political leaders, who is to be blamed? the leaders or the people who elect them?

If the people are to be blamed, where is the change to be effected? in the system or in the society?

If the change is to effected in the society, how it is to be achieved? who will take the leadership?

Courtesy: An E-Mail from Chet Ram

More questions and answers on Draft Lokpal Bill

Why shouldn’t the Jan Lokpal Bill be subject to broad public participation and discourse?

During the drafting stage, the Jan Lokpal Bill is being exposed to public debate like no other bill in the past has. Numerous suggestions from various groups and individuals who have come forward to participate have already been included and will continue to do so till the date of finalization. A dedicated website, lokpalbillconsultation.org, is gathering inputs from the entire country. Public consultations are planned to be held throughout the country. Pamphlets are being printed for handing out to various public institutions and communities.

The bill drafting committee should not include members from the civil society. Bypassing democratic processes for political expediency however desirable the outcome, may be detrimental to democracy itself. 

Generally, bills presented in parliament are drafted by government bureaucrats and other non-elected people, and rarely by the politicians (people’s representatives). In the drafting committee for the Jan Lokpal Bill, with equal representation from civil society and government, the step is only more democratic, not less.

Most importantly, the parliament will ultimately debate and vote on the draft, so who drafted the bill becomes less important. Committees for drafting bills have several times taken members from the civil society in the past – Maharashtra has enacted 7 acts like this.

As a side note, most bureaucrats have little field experience in social issues, and are confined to think only of authoritarian/undemocratic structures and processes. Several laws passed after independence like the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, POTA, etc. are evidence of such autocratic thinking. Thus, a genuine people’s participation in the drafting committee will only result in more open and democratic national laws.

The drafting panel doesn't have a broad representation and doesn't include other eminent people or activists.

First of all, Anna said he will travel around the country collecting all ideas for an effective bill. A dedicated website, lokpalbillconsultation.org, is gathering inputs from the entire country. Public consultations are being held in different parts of the country. So, not being on the panel shouldn't prevent anybody including eminent people from submitting their ideas.

Second, can NAC be said to have a broad-based representation? How do members of NAC get chosen? Is there a transparent process for that? What is the constitutional validity of NAC?

Why not include other parties in the drafting panel instead of the Bhushans father-son duo?

The chief criterion for selection of the civil society members in the drafting committee was to select those people who had drafted the Jan Lokpal Bill. They are the only people who can explain all the background reasoning for having the various clauses and the interrelationships among them. People unfamiliar with the thought process behind drafting the bill will be unlikely to explain various subtleties of this complex legislation during the JDC’s meetings.

In addition, Shanti Bhushan and Prashant Bhushan are both eminent jurists whose services are much needed in reviewing and drafting the final bill. The fact that they happen to be father and son is irrelevant. Charges of nepotism are meaningless because nepotism implies that the one of them was able to get the other accepted to the panel using their influence.

Government’s representatives in the committee are the true representatives of the people of India.

Not true. There is no member of the opposition in the government’s team of five. Opposition parties, also elected democratically just like the ruling party, form an essential constituent of a functioning democracy, and thus should have been included from the government’s side.

Courtesy: Indiaagainstcorruption.org