Retired IPS officer opposes Lokpal Bill

A former IPS officer has opposed the Lokpal Bill, expressing apprehensions that if enacted it would hinder developmental process.

"Lokpal would become a hurdle in the developmental process. Not only that but one more babu (bureaucrat) too would be added in the government machinery," retired IPS officer Suresh Khopade said.

A book in Marathi written by Khopade on the subject -- 'Lokpal - Ek Swarthi Babu Nahitar Vikascha Bhasmasur' (Lokpal - Either a selfish bureaucrat or a hurdle in the developmental process) -- was launched by senior journalist Rahi Bhide and Rajendra Sathe here yesterday.

Explaining the drawbacks of the Lokpal in a developing country like India, Khopade said, "If Lokpal is given enormous rights, he would tend to be corrupt."

He also dispelled notions that any country could progress due to the enactment of the Lokpal Bill.

"China has developed not because of the Lokpal but due to their moral values," he said.

Asserting that he meant no disrespect to Anna Hazare, Khopade said he was impressed with the work of anti-graft crusader in Ralegan Siddhi in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district.

"I respect Anna Hazare and was impressed during my visit to Ralegan Siddhi. He has done significant work there," he said.