New Delhi, August 23
Just two days after the Shahi Imam of the Jama Masjid said that slogans raised at the Ramlila Maidan were anti-Islam, Anna Hazare's close associates Arvind Kejriwal and Kiran Bedi met him today and briefed him on the movement.

Talking to them, the Imam expressed strong resentment on not taking Muslims in the movement. He asked both of them to raise the issues related to Muslims from the dais.

"I explained to them the issues of Muslims that should be raised by Anna Hazare and other Gandhians," Bukhari said.

Hazare's associates explained to the Imam about the movement launched by the Gandhian. Sources said that Kejriwal and Kiran Bedi asked him to share the stage with Anna, but he was not willing to do so.

However, Muslims in general defied the views of Ahmed Bukhari, saying that there was nothing unIslamic in Hazare's movement against corruption. Every citizen is bearing the brunt of corruption that has led to inflation. It's a political movement and clerics should avoid engaging themselves in such issues.

Nasim Ahmed of Turkaman Gate said that those days were gone when people used to follow the Imam blindly. Now a majority of the people are educated. They have knowledge of theology also. Religious leaders cannot make them fool by issuing baseless statements.

The movement of Anna Hazare is going on smoothly and all the segments of society are supporting it, he added.

Dr Fazalu Rehman who teaches in a government school said that Muslims should not take the statement of Bukhari as a statement of the community. It can be an individual opinion. If Hindus chant Bharat Mata ki jai and Vande Matram, Muslims can say Allahu Akabar, Nare Takbir. Arrangements for Iftar and namaz are there at the Maidan. There is no communal feeling among the organizers of the movement, he added.

New Delhi, August 23
They're homeless and consider themselves lucky if they get one square meal a day. Now, thanks to Anna Hazare's fast against corruption, they have found a temporary home at the Ramlila Maidan and are assured of at least three meals a day if not snacks and juices in between.

Most of them are there for the free food, but there are some who do believe in Anna's cause.

Take the case of Raghu Kumar, 24, who usually sits on a mat near a traffic signal in north Delhi and sells cigarettes and chewing tobacco from a bag and curls up at night in any corner he can find.

"I pay Rs 300 every week to the police. Besides, they even take cigarettes and other stuff for free, saying it is because of them that I could sell these things. With Anna, now even I can raise my voice against corruption."

Raghu is not the only homeless individual with a grouse.

Madan Lal, who usually spends the night at a shelter near the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in south Delhi, had a sad story about how corruption can affect one's life.

"I worked as a peon at a government school in Burari but after my retirement, I never got my pension. The officials at the pension department asked for Rs 25,000 to clear my files. My children disowned me terming me as a burden and I had no other choice but to sell toys at red lights at the age of 76, just to live.

"Because of the corrupt officials, I am all alone today and so I have come here," said Madan Lal.

These, however, were the exceptions. The majority of homeless have gathered in Ramlila Maidan to enjoy the free food being served, free mats to sleep on and a clean environment, contrary to the deteriorating conditions of the night shelters in the city.

"We don't know what is the Lokpal Bill; neither am I concerned but I am here because I get good food to eat and a nice place to sit. That's enough a reason for me to be here," said Raju, one in a group of four homeless people who are otherwise seen near the Hanuman temple at Connaught Place.

"Many homeless have found a temporary home here in Ramlila Maidan as they don't have to beg or work for a livelihood. It is the best place for them," said social activist Ashok Pandey.

Physically challenged Nagesh Nath, who begs near the Kalkaji temple in south Delhi, said: "Beggars like me have never been helped by any politician or government, but because of this man (Anna), many of us can have free food. We are raising slogans, wearing caps and singing songs, it's enjoyable. The cause does not affect me. I am happy that I am enjoying myself here."

For Amit, who usually sleeps on the pavements near Sarai Kale Khan station, Ramlila Maidan was a picnic spot.

"Sleeping here is much better than sleeping on the pavements. Moreover you get everything at your hand whether it is water or food. What best can be done?" he said.

Ever since Anna resumed his fast on Friday, an army of volunteers has been ferrying items like bread pakoras, kachoris, samosas, aloo puris, paranthas, rasogollas, tea, biscuits and half a dozen varieties of namkeens to feed the teeming masses at the venue. For the health conscious, there are bananas and mango juice.

The capital is a home to over 150,000 homeless, according to NGOs like Bachpan Bachao Andolan and many more. However, the official record is around 70,000 are homeless. - IANS

New Delhi, August 23
The Public Cause Research Foundation (PCRF), a Delhi-based organisation, receives the donation made by the people who support Anna Hazare's indefinite fast at the Ramlila Maidan.

However, Arvind Kejriwal, one of Hazare's closest aides, said that donations are not required any longer as the India Against Corruption (IAC) will utilize the cash it has already received from donors.

PCRF which works for "just, transparent, accountable and participatory governance" was set up on December 19, 2006, by Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, one of the main aides of Hazare and writer, Abhinandan Sekhri.

"Kejriwal said that India Against Corruption does not need donations now. We will take only what is necessary," claimed Aswathi Muralidharan, the media coordinator of IAC at the Ramlila Maidan.

When this reporter asked Aswathi and several volunteers of IAC, about the amount of donations received, they were all tightlipped about it.

"We are still calculating the donations received. After the bills are collected and we compile the data, the expenditure on each activity at the Ramlila Maidan and the donations made by the people will be uploaded on the IAC website after Hazare's fast is over," said Aswathi.

However, one of the volunteers of IAC revealed an approximate amount of donations.

"Arvind Kejriwal yesterday said that they had received Rs 30-40 lakh as donations," pointed out the volunteer, who does not want to be named.

Furthermore, Aswathi said that people donate money to the IAC in three ways: cash, online payment and cheque.

The donations are used for the expenditure at the Maidan.

"The money is spent on various things such as tents, stage, carpeting the ground, medicines and logistics," she added.

New Delhi, August 23
Anna Hazare's eighth day of fast today witnessed heavy rain which lashed the city in the afternoon. But that hardly deterred his supporters at the Ramlila Ground.

Though three makeshift tents at the ground were almost uprooted due to the heavy rain, the threat of getting drenched did not discourage his frantic supporters from carrying out their routine services which include looking after the overall arrangements at the venue. However, some people were seen hurrying for shelter in the rain.

The poor condition of the ground, which was still being levelled by the workers of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), washed away all the claims of the civic agency that it is taking care of the basic facilities at the ground.

At last, the volunteers using buckets, drained out the water that was accumulated near the stage where Anna is holding his fast.

"We had done everything in our power to ensure that the ground was ready for the protest. Recently, I had visited the venue along with the Mayor and the Standing Committee chairman to ensure that everything was in order. The rain has led to the waterlogging in the ground," said Leader of the Delhi Assembly Subhash Arya.

Many visitors at the ground were actually struggling in the mud, but that couldn't dampen their spirit. "So what if it's raining. It doesn't matter at all. We were here in the scorching heat too. At least it's a much cooling effect this time," said Shwetlana, a student of Delhi University, who had come with her friends.

"Getting drenched is a little price to pay for the success of this battle against corruption. The rain has actually made the weather a lot more pleasant and more people are going to turn up," said Garima Kaushal, a supporter.

New Delhi, August 23
People braved inclement weather today and turned up in thousands to support Anna Hazare's agitation against corruption at the Ramlila Maidan. Their mood remained upbeat throughout the day.

Old-timers who also happened to be present at the Maidan were a little cautious in their approach, 
but many felt that this agitation brought to mind the period of the Gandhian satyagraha.

Sartaj Singh Khullar, a 85-year-old man from Punjab braved bad weather to witness the mass upsurge against corruption. He is a retired Army officer and is visiting his family in Delhi. He himself lives in a small town near Jalandhar.

He said, "I would like to tell you that to date I have not been recognized as a freedom fighter by the government despite my participation in the freedom movement in 1942 and even earlier. I am here to witness Anna's agitation out of curiosity. I do not agree with him on everything, but I totally stand for an anti-corruption movement."

Khullar added, "Anna seems to have touched the heart of the people and this movement has what could be the beginning of a mass upsurge. However, we have to proceed cautiously. The Jan Lokpal Bill is not perfect. If the Lokpal will act as a check on the Prime Minister and the government, who will watch the Lokpal? This point has to be worked out properly.

Anna's fast has a certain quality that reminds one of Gandhian methods. It seems to have caught the imagination of the youth and the public. I will be observing it to see where it goes. This is just the beginning. Let us not get too excited."

Other old-timers present at the Ramlila Maidan also sounded a cautious note.

Janaki Sharma, a 79-year-old woman, pointed out, "I have come to the Ramlila Maidan as I completely agree with the movement. My grandsons had been talking about Anna every day and today I personally want to see as to what is happening.

“I think Anna has understood the pulse of the people and given voice to it. It does bring to mind the days of the Gandhian satyagraha. I was a young girl then and was more of a witness than an active participant. I feel a lot more has to happen before it comes to anywhere near Gandhi's movement."

Janaki further said, "The Jan Lokpal Bill cannot become a final authority. It can serve as a check on the government, but some arrangement has to be made to put a check on the Lokpal also."

She added, "Corruption has to be removed from society and for this a strong socio-political movement has to be launched that will help change the system. Anna has his work cut out and it is no mean task."

New Delhi, August 23
While the number of Anna Hazare supporters continues to increase at the Ramlila Maidan with every passing day, the prices of Tricolours and Anna souvenirs are also rising throughout the Capital.

From the protests at Chhatrasal Stadium, Azad Maidan and Tihar Jail, the Anna Hazare movement has undergone a complete makeover. The Maidan has started resembling any tourist destination, especially with the local vendors overcharging for everything. People thronging the place with families and friends don't mind paying an extra buck for Anna T shirts, topis, flags, banners, wrist bands and even eatables.

Every fourth or fifth person can be spotted with painted faces flaunting the National Flag at the Maidan.

What's more, the number of flags has gone up tremendously. Banners have become more innovative. And amidst all of this, local vendors are making a fortune.

A flag of a medium size that cost Rs 50 to Rs 60 before the weekend, now costs up to Rs 200 at the Maidan. Vendors at nearby red lights, including ITO, are also selling the souvenirs. The Anna topi that was previously available for Rs 8, is now available for Rs 15-20. Most of the items have been coming in from Sadar Bazar.

Supporters can be seen waiting in huge lines outside the Maidan to get their cheeks painted. Previously, vendors charged Rs 5, now they charge anywhere between Rs 10 and Rs 25.

Krishna, a vendor, said he has been earning double than his usual earnings.

"I normally help my sister with mehndi at India Gate and we make Rs 300-350 per day. By painting tricolour on cheeks, I have been earning Rs 800-900 a day. Some girls also get the tricolor painted on their shoulders and arms. People want to get the Tricolor painted on their rickshaws, bikes and even cars. For that I charge between Rs 50 and Rs 300," he said.

"It's only fair to increase the prices now. The number of people increased over the weekend. Everyone wants to carry home some souvenir. Anna accessories have become the latest craze in the market. Students, young girls, housewives or even the elderly--everyone wants something and they do not mind paying a little bit extra," said Mani Shyam, one of the vendors outside the Maidan today.

People have started associating these 'patriotic' goods with their emotions, said a group of bikers who reached the Maidan, waiving big flags and donning Anna topis.

"Wearing this topi, I feel as empowered as Anna. Waving the flag just gives us confidence. We feel more energetic as we raise the slogans," said Sarthak Prakash, one of the boys from the group.

Ghaziabad, August 23
Seven people died and six others were critically injured when a mini-truck rammed into parked vehicles and then a group of people near a temple on the national highway-58 in Ghaziabad last night, the police said.

The driver of the goods vehicle was drunk.

In all, 10 people were injured in the accident and are undergoing treatment in different hospitals.

According to Murad Nagar station officer Avnish Dixit, a speeding canter truck that was going from Lal Kuan towards Meerut crashed into a line-up of vehicles near Manan Dham temple on NH-58 near Morta police post.

The speeding truck first rammed into an I10 car, and then crashed into an Alto and an auto after which it ran over a group of people crossing the road near the temple. It also hit three bikes.

The injured were rushed to MMG and Sarvodaya hospitals where seven people died last night while the condition of six of the injured was critical.

The deceased were identified as Kusum, Pushpa and Chaman Bhagwat, Amit, Punita Agrawal, Honey and Umesh, all residents of Ghaziabad.

"Driver of the canter truck Manoj was under the influence of alcohol and was driving at high speed. We have arrested him and impounded the vehicle," the station officer said. - IANS

Noida, August 23
Residents of Noida took a no-bribe oath at Priyadarshni Park at Sector 12 last evening.

Hundreds of residents under the banner of the Manav Sewa Samiti and other social organisations assembled at the park around 5 pm and took the oath. They extended their support to Anna Hazare's Jan Lokpal Bill.

"No law can prevent corruption until we change ourselves," said one of the residents.

Students of Government Degree College organised a street play, "Ham jaagenge, jag jagega".

At Greater Noida too, residents took out several rallies in different sectors in support of the anti-corruption campaign. They were carrying placards and national flags.

Around 2,000 persons from Noida and Greater Noida went to the Ramlila Ground in Delhi to support Anna.

Residents of the Ganga Shopping Complex have been holding dharna for three days.

Gautam Budh Nagar MP Surinder Singh Nagar too extended his support to the anti-corruption movement and appealed to the people to support Anna to strengthen his cause.

At Sarafabad village, residents performed yajna. This was done so that the UPA government should get wisdom and accept the Jan Lokpal Bill.

Gurgaon, August 23
Thanks to the callous attitude of the local HUDA authorities, Renu Aggarwal, a 71-year-old resident of New Delhi, has been making rounds of various government offices for over a year to be able to sell her own plot, but to no avail.

Even intervention by the Gurgaon deputy commissioner as well as the Economic Offences Wing of the Police Department has failed to get her grievance redressed.

Narrating their tale of woes, Renu's husband Madan Lal Aggarwal told TNS that his wife had been allotted HUDA Plot No.724 in Sector 38 of Gurgaon.

On January 8, 2010, she entered into an agreement with one Satbir of Delhi to sell the plot for about Rs 95 lakh. She received Rs 10 lakh as earnest money and the balance was to be paid within 75 days.

In good faith, she signed the form meant to obtain the transfer permission from Estate Officer-II, HUDA, Gurgaon, without mentioning the name of the transferee, as requested by Satbir.

As the elderly couple did not receive the balance payment within the stipulated time, they smelt something fishy. On March 25, 2010, they went to the office of the Estate Officer-II, Gurgaon, and filed an application, requesting that no transfer permission be issued without Renu Aggarwal's physical presence.

However, on the very next day, one Nawab Singh, who was not even known to the Aggarwals, applied for the transfer permission for this plot. On April 16, 2010, the HUDA officials concerned granted him the transfer permission, in complete disregard of Renu Aggarwal's written plea against granting any such permission without her presence.

The Aggarwals allege that Satbir and Nawab, along with their accomplices, Jitender Dagar and Surender Kumar, had greased the palms of the HUDA officials concerned to obtain the transfer permission despite their specific request.

Though the said transfer permission lapsed after 90 days, the HUDA officials, who had breached the trust of the elderly couple, refused to issue fresh transfer permission.

"They maintained that we should first produce a no-objection certificate from the previous transferee in the name of the prospective buyer, though there is no such provision in the HUDA Act or Rules," said Aggarwal.

He alleged that the aforesaid persons were now demanding 50 per cent of the plot's present market value to give the NOC.

The Aggarwals' repeated requests to the local as well as state HUDA officials for getting the said transfer permission cancelled fell on deaf ears. They also sought the relevant information under the RTI Act, but to no avail.

They brought the matter to the notice of the Gurgaon deputy commissioner, who directed the said Estate Officer to look into the matter personally and send the comments to his office within 10 days. Thereafter, he sent two reminders also, but no reply has so far been received.

They also lodged a complaint with the Economic Offences Wing of the Gurgaon Police. The investigating official served three notices to the Estate Officer-II to explain the matter. But yet again, the result was cipher. 

New Delhi, August 23
A 30-year-old constable of the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) deputed on security at union parliamentary affairs minister Pawan Kumar Bansal's house, accidentally shot himself this morning.

According to the police, constable Don Kuper of the Meghalaya police was taking a stroll at a park outside the Bansal's house when he fired a shot from his official arm around 6 am.

"Kuper accidentally shot himself in the belly by his own service rifle, Indian Small Arms System (INSAS). He was rushed to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital where he is under treatment," said a senior police official, ruling out any suicide theory.