TI-India condemns Anna arrest

Transparency International India condemns the arrest of Anna Hazare
Delhi, 16 August 2011

Anti Corruption watchdog, Transparency International India (TII) , has condemned the arrest of Anna Hazare, Arvind Kejriwal and other members of India Against Corruption, this morning.

Terming the arrest, unconstitutional and violation of civil liberties of ordinary citizen of this country, TII Executive Director, Anupama Jha said, “Government has not been able to check rising corruption in the country and is trying to muzzle the voice of those who raise their voice against corruption. This is undemocratic and injustice to the people of this nation”, she said.

Chair of TII, P. S. Bawa said, “Government should not ignore the criticisms being levelled against them with regard to the Lokpal Bill. Rather they should consider some valid points being raised by the Anna team.” Mr Bawa pointed out that certain clauses including action against the Ministers and MPs and procedure with regard to enquiry and investigation in the Government Lokpal Bill was too vague.

“We very strongly feel that the Government should attempt a reconciliatory talks with the civil society leaders , instead of stifling the voice of the people who are in no mood to tolerate corruption any more. We also feel that since the monsoon session of the Parliament is going on, the Government should reconsider its draft bill and include the points raised by the civil society leaders”, spokesperson from TII said.

Media contact(s):
Transparency International India

---