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