Standing united against corruption

Undoubtedly, the campaign has ignited a spark in the minds of millions of ordinary Indians to fight against corruption. Through tweets and messages on the social networking sites, the Gen-Y supported the movement in a big way.

Bent by the pressure, the central government agreed to introduce the Lokpal Bill in Parliament during the coming monsoon session. But the youngsters feel that people should not rest till the bill is passed.

Metrolife interacted with young Bangaloreans and found that the issue of corruption definitely rattles them and they are doubtful about the effectiveness of the anti-corruption legislation.

Manasa, Student

“We had planned to join the anti-corruption campaign at Freedom Park, but we couldn’t make it due to the exams. As we are the leaders of tomorrow, we have to behave in a
responsible way by joining hands for a noble cause. Though we don’t feel the
impact of corruption uring our college days, we will definitely experience it once we start searching for jobs. The Lokayukta is doing a wonderful job in Karnataka, I hope that Lokpal Bill will be passed so that it brings in changes in the society.”

Harsha Raikar, Software engineer

“Anna Hazare’s agitation is timely, appropriate and critical. We are in such a state that no one seems to be worried about the scams involving crores of rupees. The frustration and anger that one saw on the streets is because people have witnessed and compromised on too much of corruption for a long time. India needs anti-corruption laws and institutions like Lokpal to bring in the changes that Hazare and others in the civil society are seeking. However, it does not mean that the Lokpal Bill is perfect or can control corruption with a magic wand.” 

Prathiksha Student

“I felt very happy when Anna Hazare initiated the campaign and I supported the anti-corruption campaign by forwarding messages on mobile phone and social networking sites. In many instances, especially in government offices, we are forced to pay bribe. That should be stopped. We have to build a corruption free nation and for that we need to elect educated and honest politicians. I hope the bill will be introduced soon.”

Ashwin Software engineer

“The movement was a refreshing change for the Indian people, who have been experiencing corruption everywhere. Anna Hazare led them from the front. But the movement is yet to attain the ‘mass movement’ status. Strange as it may seem in this cricket crazy country, there was much more support and prayers for Indian Cricket Team than for the team led by Anna Hazare. I believe people who came out in support were disgusted with corruption and had  experienced it at one time or the other. I hope one day, all Indians will stand united against corruption and other issues like terrorism, global warming etc which are hampering our growth.”

Harsh Vikram Student

“First, I would like to salute Anna Hazare for taking up such a risk at this age. Among his supporters, only a few are genuine ones, others are simply there for publicity. Many people are just following him without having any ideology or principles. After the episode, no one is talking about the bill. In the present scenario, it is not that easy to eradicate corruption from the society. I strongly feel that we are the ones responsible for corruption as we have been supporting it directly or indirectly.”

As told to Rajani Hegde