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Anna Strikes again- Battleground Maharashtra, Lokayukta Bill September 22, 2011

Anna is BACK!!!

A strong Maharashtra Lokayukta Bill is what Anna wants this time. The method, again is the same, a FAST. The deadline for passing of a strong Lokayukta bill in Maharshtra Assembly is given to be this winter session of state assembly. And once this is acheived, I dont know for how many other worthy social causes would this veteran activist would take up and for how long.

I appreciate and respect the intention of the agitation, but at same time it feels weird as only one person is taking the action. As a man can be killed, but an idea still lives. Similarly in this case, it is better to institutionalise the entire agitation which would carry forward the noble work of Anna. At same time it has to be made sure that, this institution is highly effective, transparent and accountable for it’s work and intent. Also the using same weapon of fasting cannot prove effective all the time as we can see in case of Irom Sharmila from Manipur. Her struggle has been a decade long, but still her fight awaits her.

So we clearly can see the stark difference between the support both activists have garnered. Some may argue that the cause for corruption is more pervasive than the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), the support would definitely more for Anna. Again if we happen to look this support beyond Anna, what do we really see? We need to ask ourselves how would this agitation be kept vigilant and alive enough to garner the public support for each cause it stands for, galvanizing the forces trying to prohibit the noble cause?

I see the a complete Void. And the reason for this is the fact that Anna would again use fast as a tool to achieve his goal. How long would he be able to do this? And who would get into his shoes after his time is done? This is major long term assessment Anna has to do and find a solution that would keep the his work on track long after he has gone.

That would be the legacy he has to create, if he wants to really change the Indian society for good.

God speed Anna!!!