Kiran Bedi insists on a separate Lokayukta in Tamil Nadu

The Justice Verma Committee recommendations need a holistic and comprehensive response from the Central government, said social activist Kiran Bedi while addressing the press at the Sri Krishna Institutions on Monday. She said that the government should implement the recommendations if it is serious about the issues confronting the country.

“The report is not just about rape law but about the entire governance of the country. It involves judicial, police and electoral reforms. There is no point in politicians committing the crime and legislating the law. The government should respond positively to the recommendations,” she said.

Talking about the new version of Lokpal Bill she said it was better to have a system than have none. “The new version is the beginning of a better administration. It is good to have it rather than having none. Anna Hazare will ask for more since much more needs to be done. It is good that there are people who ask for more,” she said. She added that every State needed a Hazare.

She said that all States including Tamil Nadu should have a separate lokayukta. “About five States in the country have not appointed a lokayukta so far including Tamil Nadu and it needs to be done at the earliest. A powerful lokayukta can contribute to our fight against corruption,” she added.

When asked about the controversy surrounding the Kamal Haasan movie Vishwaroopam, she said the matter had been settled and she was looking forward to see the movie. Interacting with the students, Bedi urged them to be good leaders by reading voraciously. “All good leaders are readers and read a lot to be a leader.”