Anna Hazare rejects Sonia Gandhi's claims of RSS backing for anti-graft movement
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Ahilyanagar: Veteran social activist Anna Hazare on Wednesday rejected allegations that his anti-corruption movement had received covert backing from the BJP and RSS, responding to remarks made by Congress leader Sonia Gandhi in her recently released memoir.
Gandhi, in her book Belonging: A Journey of Love, recalled the India Against Corruption movement led by Hazare and said some prominent participants had subsequently alleged that it enjoyed behind-the-scenes support from the BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Reacting to the claims, Hazare said his campaign was not aligned with any political party and that his primary concern had always been the welfare of society and the country. He urged Gandhi to focus on national issues rather than make such allegations.
The activist also maintained that people from different political backgrounds had supported his movement, adding that he had no organisational association with either the Congress or the BJP.
Referring to his social work, Hazare said he continued to use his pension to assist people affected by drought and remained committed to public welfare irrespective of criticism.
Gandhi had also written that the movement drew enormous public support and put the then Congress-led UPA government under pressure. She alleged that after the government's removal, public attention surrounding Hazare's campaign gradually faded.
Meanwhile, Hazare spoke about his forthcoming book, Anna Hazare: Gram Yogi, which chronicles his life and work.
With IANS inputs
