Discussion will solve Lokpal Bill issue: Sharad Pawar

Union agriculture minister Sharad Pawar on Saturday suggested that a discussion rather than a debate should be initiated to solve the Lokpal Bill issue.  Pawar was speaking at the launch of the RK Laxman chair instituted by the Symbiosis Institute.

Pawar who was forced to resign from the Group of Ministers on corruption said that while he supports the bill, he is of the view that agitation is not a proper method to bring about the bill.

“I wasn’t involved in the Lokpal Bill discussion. However, there has to be a unified decision,’’ Pawar said while speaking to media persons.

“Gone are the days of 1950s when the country had just two parties. There are various parties in the present day scenario and hence varied views. It is necessary to address all these various issues and come to an unanimous decision,’’ Pawar said.

Commenting on the recent murder of Mumbai-based crime reporter J Dey, Pawar said it is the responsibility of the government to provide protection to journalists.

“Journalists should work in a secured environment. The draft for the bill to provide security to journalists must be written carefully,’’ he said.