Lokpal Bill through: Rahul Gandhi is Anna Hazare’s penpal now
Gandhian writes to Congress VP praising his 'commitment' on the anti-corruption bill.
New Delhi: Clearly distancing himself from AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal, anti-graft crusader Anna Hazare on Tuesday softened his approach towards the Congress on the Lokpal issue. The Gandhian wrote to AICC vice-president Rahul Gandhi praising his “commitment” on the anti-corruption bill. Rahul Gandhi, in return, expressed his gratitude, saying that he was “very grateful” and that he respected the role played by the crusader in making the law a reality.
The letter to Rahul Gandhi is seen as a signal that the chasm between Anna and his former aide has only widened. It is also to prevent Kejriwal from extracting any political mileage out of the passage of the bill, it is said.
The Congress released the two letters on Tuesday to time it with the bill's passage in the Rajya Sabha. The Lok Sabha will take it up on Wednesday.
Anna Hazare thanks Rajya Sabha for passing Lokpal bill, to break fast Wednesday
Hazare's letter has come as a blessing to the much-battered Congress, which looks to capitalise on it in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections.
Hazare's letter to Gandhi noted: “I welcome your commitment towards passing the Lokpal and Lokayukta Bill in Parliament. My request is that the points that have been endorsed and recommended by the select committee are included in it.”
Gandhi, responding to the letter on Monday, addressed Hazare as “dear” and appreciated the Gandhian's role in the Lokpal campaign. “Your letter has given me great encouragement. All of us are committed to provide people of this country a competent and strongest possible Lokpal system. We respect your role in this task. We are very grateful to you for your support,” Mr Gandhi noted.
