Team Anna spells out revamp plans
‘Graft’ing: Rules for members soon
Under pressure over allegations of financial misconduct and other controversies, Team Anna on Sunday decided to frame a Constitution for its anti-graft movement and revamp the core committee.
The day-long meeting chaired by anti-graft crusader Anna Hazare, who is observing ‘maun vrat’ since October 16, at Ralegan Siddi, decided against disbanding the present committee.
Hazare, in a written communication which was read out by Arvind Kejriwal, a key member of India Against Corruption (IAC) at a press conference, said the Constitution will have clauses detailing rules and regulations, specifying the nature and character of the core committee and working committee members. “Those found to be indulging in any misdemeanor or misconduct will be penalised according to provisions laid down in the Constitution,” Kejriwal said.
Several members of IAC in the recent past have been embroiled in controversies over alleged misuse of their positions and manipulation of funds meant for social work. The team, which at one point of time, projected as a ‘cohesive and united front’ was also reportedly hit by inner schisms.
However, Hazare stressed that the team is strong and no one can break it. “There were talks about disbanding the core committee. I don't think it is right. If we flee the ground due to some allegations, then it will erode the credibility of the movement and it is not good for the movement. Don't bother about allegations. We should face the challenges as one body and we will fight till Jan Lokpal bill is passed. The need of the hour is to frame a Constitution and restructure the core committee,” he said.
In his statement he also re-emphasised that he was “not against any particular political party” and he does not think the winner of the recent Hisar bypolls is waging a war against corruption. According to him, some people in the government were deliberately spreading canard against the team members to break their spirit. “We are united and our team has members with varied ideologies and political perspectives. Personal ideologies do not represent the team’s collective view per se,” he said.
Hazare also reiterated the team’s plan to organise a country-wide yatra and campaign in five states scheduled to go to polls in 2012 if Jan Lokpal bill is not cleared in the coming winter session of Parliament.
On the recent controversies surrounding IAC finances, Kejriwal said they will post the audited accounts of the movement on their website on November 1.
