Mumbai stands with Anna Hazare

Anna Hazare’s 97 hour fast to ensure the passage of the Jan Lokpal bill at Delhi, not only shook the government, but also gave a boost to civil rights groups and activists in the city. Over 1,200km away in Mumbai, Azad Maidan became the vortex of activity for over 5,000 people, who converged there in support to the movement. Apart from Bollywood stars and glitterati, activists and citizens also flocked in large numbers.

Even while Hazare broke his fast, the euphoria of what many are calling “a people’s victory”, continues to exult. Civic activist and Juhu corporator Adolf D’souza, who had stunned many when he contested and won the civic elections in 2007 as an independent candidate, said, “I was at Azad Maidan and fasted a day in solidarity. The movement was a much-needed boost to citizens who are fighting against corruption. But people have to keep this momentum alive. The mere passage of the bill isn’t enough. A lot will dependent on how effectively we use it. Bottled-up anger against systemic corruption for all these years has found an outlet and direction.”

Sudhir Badami, transport expert and citizen activist too echoed this. “Only voting is not democracy, it is also asserting collectively to ensure that the system delivers, and that’s what Anna has proven,” he said. There were others, like thinker-activist Pravin Patkar, who struck a different note. “With everyone from Sonia Gandhi, all political parties and corporate leaders, to engineers and architects supporting the movement, one wonders who this movement was trying to fight.”

Badami welcomed the prime minister’s decision to accept Hazare’s demands. He also said, “The job has just begun. The prime minister should get rid of all corrupt elements in high places, including some ministers.” Dr Abraham Mathai of the All India Christian Council and vice-president of the Maharashtra State Minorities Commission said, “I welcome Anna Hazare’s campaign against corruption which has finally borne fruit.

However it is imperative on our part to stand up for integrity even in the trickiest of situations to make his crusade meaningful. We need to pledge ourselves anew to totally abstain from corruption even in the confines of absolute privacy.”