The back channel talks are on to break the deadlock on the Lokpal issue. Additional Chief Secretary of Maharashtra, UC Sarangi had another meeting with Anna Hazare on Monday. Highly placed sources said, the Centre has sought the services of Sarangi and the spiritual leader Bhaiyyuji Maharaj to hold talks with the civil society group to carry forward the dialogue. Bhaiyyuji Maharaj, who also had a meeting with Team Anna, said that the government is trying hard to find a solution to the issue. Reacting on Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's statement that the government is open to dialogue, a close aide of Anna Hazare Kiran Bedi said the government should come forward with specific proposals. Earlier addressing the Golden jubilee lecture of the Indian Institute of Management, Kolkata, Prime Minister said, the government is opened to a reasoned debate on all issues of Lokpal Bill. The Congress supported Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh's statements. Speaking to media, AICC General Secretary Janardan Dwivedi said there is a lot of scope for give and take on the issue. The core group of the Congress party met at the Prime Minister's house in New Delhi last evening to discuss the situation arising out of Anna Hazare's hunger protest. Those attending the meeting include Pranab Mukherjee, AK Antony, P Chidambram and V Narayanasamy and others.Doctors have advised Anna Hazare not to venture into the Sun as it could have a negative impact on his health. Manish Sisodia, a close associate of Hazare, told reporters in the wee hours today that medical advice came after doctors examined Hazare at the Ramlila Maidan late on Monday night. Meanwhile, nine political parties have given a call for a nationwide protest from today against the government's version of the Lokpal Bill. They are demanding more effective legislation to end corruption in high places.They have also decided to express their views before the standing committee on personal and public grievances, law and justice discussing the Bill. The parties include left parties, TDP, BJD, Janta Dal(S) and RLD.
News On AIR | August 23, 2011 8:25 AM
Back channel talks continue to break deadlock over Lokpal issue