Will Lokpal bill really end the menace of corruption?

Bangalore: As his fight for fast-unto-death enters the third day, support for Anna Hazare is drawing in from all the corners of the country. His campaign to exert pressure on the Government of India to enact a strong anti-corruption act as envisaged in the Jan Lokpal Bill is gaining momentum in a fast rhythm and his voice is echoed all over the country today through mass support. However, the logicality of his struggle remains disputed as many doubts if the draft Jan Lokpal bill can be accepted in total and can strict anti-corruption laws prevent corruption in the government institutions? It was in 1969 the first Lokpal Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha but could not get through in Rajya Sabha and now after 42 years from there, the lokpal bill is still pending in India. The Jan Lokpal Bill or the Citizen's Ombudsman Bill is a draft anti-corruption bill drawn up by prominent civil society activists that would pave the way for a Jan Lokpal, an independent body which would have the power to prosecute politicians and bureaucrats without government permission. The bill has been drafted by Shanti Bhushan, former IPS Kiran Bedi, Justice N. Santosh Hegde, renowned advocate Prashant Bhushan, former chief election commissioner J. M. Lyngdoh in consultation with the leaders of the India Against Corruption movement and the civil society. The draft bill demands for the institution of the office of Lokpal at center and Lok Ayukta at state level. It is designed to create an effective anti-corruption and grievance redressal systems and to provide effective protection to whistleblowers. The argument and the support for the Jan Lokpal Bill is centered around the fact that India being one of the top three economies in the world but sinks to number 87 due to widespread corruption in the government departments. All the eight versions of the previously presented Lokpal bill are said to be too weak to address this menace, yet none of them could have been passed. However, experts maintain the fact that inputs from the civil society should be welcomed but it cannot be working on behalf of Parliament in law making. Many are of the opinion that the proposed bill is not a permanent cure against corruption but the battle must go on. No one can take over the prerogative of Parliament and the civil society can only suggest their views outside it. Nonetheless, the supporters of the proposed draft demands for the joint committee only which they think can give the commission its sanctity. Giving more powers to Lokpal will not serve the purpose of curbing corruption. Now, the veteran Gandhian?s battle against corruption is fast spreading across the nation, the youth are highly inspired and voice their support in real and virtual world. The struggle has a long way to go even after the bill is passed. The inspired youth, supporting celebrities and the strong corporate entities should continue their efforts to tackle the menace of corruption. Mere passing of bill should not be our goal.