Science and technology minister Vilasrao Deshmukh played a crucial role during negotiations between the government and anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare. In an exclusive interview with Sanjay Jog, the Congress veteran explains his role in ending the impasse. Edited excerpts:
How did you establish contact with Anna Hazare? Was it was a suo moto decision to mediate?
I was concerned over Anna’ health. I was in constant touch with the villagers of Ralegan Siddhi, his native village, and the representatives of his movement. Though I was not directly involved, I was doing everything possible backstage to create an atmosphere conducive for dialogue. I decided to come onto the scene after prime minister Manmohan Singh appealed Anna to end his fast. Subsequently, the entire Parliament made a unanimous call. Later, I thought it fit to directly approach Anna and convey Parliament’s feelings. Anna also expressed a desire to talk, provided Parliament discussed the Bill’s three key points — inclusion of lower bureaucracy, citizen’s charter and Lokayuktas in states. Immediately after my meeting, I spoke to the prime minister and the finance minister, who responded positively.
How did you convince him about the government’s intent to include these points during the special debate?
I told him the government was serious about having a strong Lok Pal in accordance with the constitutional norms and parliamentary practices. Anna responded positively and that’s how the talks progressed. The final draft for debate was prepared after talks between the government and Anna’s associates. Anna was satisfied with it.
Did you bypass Team Anna?
Frankly, I did not know them well. As far as Anna is concerned, I have had a good rapport with him since long. During my tenure as the Maharashtra chief minister, I negotiated with him on several key issues and successfully handled his agitations.
More importantly, conversing in Marathi with him was also crucial. We exchanged the government drafts in Marathi, which made the talks more healthy. I am happy I could do my bit to convince him to end his fast. I am thankful to the prime minister and Congress President Sonia Gandhi for showing confidence in me.
Was Anna a hard bargainer?
He is a hard bargainer, but for pubic issues and not himself. It is a fact that the Lok Pal issue has been a matter of debate for 43 years. Anna’s agitation received great response from the country. He was consistent on his views and, ultimately, the government also responded.
Even as the fast has ended, what is the fate of the Bill?
The government will have to fulfill its promise to make a strong and effective Lok Pal a reality. The bill is with the parliamentary standing committee on law. The committee, comprising members of all political parties, is like a mini-parliament. After it submits its report, the Bill will come for passage in Parliament.