"Corruption is on the rise. It has become difficult for the common man to survive due to price rise...Setting up of Lokayukta would help curtail corruption. It should be an autonomous body like the Election Commission, High Court and Supreme Court and there should be no government interference," he told reporters after meeting Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray here.
Hazare is in Mumbai to meet political leaders to muster support for a strong Lokayukta legislation in the state.
"Raj has expressed his willingness to support a strong and effective Lokayukta in Maharashtra," Hazare said.
He lauded Raj for initiatives like conducting examination for party candidates to contest the civic body polls, held in February.
He expressed confidence that 60-65 per cent corrupt activities would be curtailed because of the Lokayukta.
The veteran social activist also reiterated his demand for the 'Right to Reject' a candidate during elections.
If people do not like a particular candidate there should be an option of Right to Reject, which would pave way for re-elections and purity in politics, he said. (MORE) PTI KVS VT DK