Deadlock on Lokpal

Too many political parties can never practically reach any consensus on Lokpal Bill. Union government should take a practical approach by constituting a five-member committee comprising of a representative each from main ruling party, main opposition party and two representatives from civil society which may be mutually agreeable to main groups fighting for a strong Lokpal Bill namely NCPRI and Anna Hazare. Possibility of a consensus is always more in committees with less number of members with odd figures so that Chairperson may have a final decisive vote in case of differences. Some eminent personality with legal background like Fali Nariman or a retired Chief Justice of India may be made chairperson. However it should be ensured to get such a bill passed with dedication and willpower.

Lokpal Bill is just a curative measure. Simultaneous steps are rather more necessary for massive electoral reforms which in fact will really serve as preventive measures for our highly tainted system.

Madhu Agrawal

Delhi