Monday, August 15, 2011

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.

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