Anna Hazare lauds Raj Thackeray

Anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare said an autonomous Lokayukta, like the Election Commission, with no restraints from any government body can curb corruption.

Hazare, who was in Mumbai to meet political leaders to garner support for a strong Lokayukta legislation in Maharashtra, met Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray.
Talking to the media, Hazare lauded the MNS leader for initiating a move like examination for party candidates and informed that Raj has extended his support for ‘a strong and effective Lokayukta.’

Hazare said only an independent Lokayukta, established on the lines of the Election Commission or SC can check corruption. This is what I told the chief minister also, he said. “Corruption is on the rise along with the rise in prices of essential commodities. How can one expect a common man to survive in such a situation? Wasteful expenditure is incurred in the so-called developmental projects.”

Hazare's praise for Raj Thackeray came soon after Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray reportedly turned down his request for a meeting. Hazare said, "If he is not meeting me, it will not affect me. I am not meeting him for any selfish interest. I am meeting him as the issue (Lokayukta) is important for the state," he said.