Chandrapur (Maha): Urging people to select "good persons" as their public representatives, social activist Anna Hazare said he would campaign during the next elections to raise an awareness on this issue.
Hazare was addressing a public meeting at Police Gymkhana ground here last night.
"Strong Lokpal Bill and Lokayukta Bill are the only hope to root out corruption in our country", Hazare said, adding that several scandals like the controversial Adarsh Society scam had come to light thanks to the RTI Act.
"The struggle for the Lokpal Bill would continue in the future. We are prepared for a `jail bharo` movement, if the government continues to be reluctant in implementing the Bill", he said.
Hazare appealed the people to start inculcating a sense of patriotism among children from a very young age. "We have forgotten the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters and have become selfish. Therefore, people should inculcate a sense of patriotism among children to make them good citizens", the Gandhian said.
"One should be ready to sacrifice for the sake of the motherland. The fight against corruption is nothing less than a second freedom struggle that is likely to last for many more days to come", he said.
Hazare advised people not to fear criticism while doing good work. "Don`t be afraid of flak, I am now used to it as I have to achieve my goals", the anti-corruption crusader said.
Talking about Maharashtra, Hazare said there was a need to decentralise power in the interest of common people in the state as the government is in "tatters" due to corruption.
Claiming that over 50 per cent of the drinking water schemes in Maharashtra were defunct, Hazare said an enquiry should be conducted in the alleged irregularities and officials responsible for it should be put in jail.
PTI
