Kejriwal Busy With Power & Money, Does Not Think Of Country: Anna Hazare
In an interview with IANS, anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare spoke at length on various issues, including the present state of AAP, headed by Arvind Kejriwal. He said that in politics, Kejriwal has become preoccupied with power and money. Until he starts thinking about society and the country, no matter how much money he earns, it will be of no use.
IANS: What is your view on AAP founder Arvind Kejriwal, who is facing a tough poll battle?
Anna Hazare: In politics, Kejriwal has become preoccupied with power and money. Until he starts thinking about society and the country, no matter how much money he earns, there is no use. Earlier, Kejriwal was with me. But when the thought of power and money came to his mind, and the idea of liquor shops took root in his heart, I chose not to go with him. When the party had to be launched, I was called, I went but told him that until everyone was in power, I would not join him.
IANS: Who will win the Delhi Assembly elections?
Anna Hazare: People will teach a lesson to those who do bad deeds. Kejriwal’s victory or defeat will be known after the election results. The result will tell what is right and wrong.
IANS: How do you view Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia going to jail?
Anna Hazare: Those who do bad deeds will have to go to jail. Our country runs according to the law. Our country has many religions, but the reason for them running in one line is ‘spirituality.’ There are different parties, but the highest is the Constitution; the country runs according to it and the law.
IANS: Why did Kumar Vishwas and Prashant Bhushan leave Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP?
Anna Hazare: Everyone has the right to speak in a democracy, but if someone says something wrong, society teaches him a lesson. If you go on the wrong path, the public will teach you a lesson. I have left the people who thought of liquor. I talk to Prashant Bhushan and Kumar Vishwas, but I don’t talk to those who are after money and power.
IANS: Are you satisfied with the functioning of Lokpal and Lok Ayukta as you had staged a sit-in fast earlier?
Anna Hazare: I protested for the creation of Lokpal at the Centre, the bill was passed in Parliament, and now the second Lokpal has been appointed. Recently, the Lokpal law was passed and appointments were made, but things did not go as per our wishes. Lokpal and Lokayukt were appointed, but the rights that people should get are lacking. Till now, people have not gotten all their rights; however, they are getting some now. But there is much more that needs to be done. The central acts regarding the Right to Information and Lokpal are good.
IANS: Your views on ‘one country, one election’?
Anna Hazare: If I get to know the motive behind one country, one election, I will say something.
IANS: Your views on spirituality and the ongoing Maha Kumbh?
Anna Hazare: Life will not change without spirituality. Spirituality does not mean chanting a rosary but doing good for the distressed and the country. Regarding Kumbh, you see the world through the lens of your perspective; it’s essential to understand the viewpoint of others as well.
