Raising questions on the recent decision on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare on Sunday said that FDI could be used as a source to bring back Indian black money into the country.
“FDI will not change the economic situation of the country. Till the time there is no law passed to curb corruption, the economic situation will not change,” said Mr Hazare in his blog, adding, “The ruling party and many other parties claim that FDI will change the economy. The Opposition says it is harmful. All are eyeing the 2014 elections and trying to eat into each other’s vote bank. People like me, who have distanced themselves from political parties cannot really rule out the fact that money coming from FDI could be Indian black money. It is not wrong on part of the people to think that our country’s money will find its way back into the country, but in another form.” Mr Hazare further said that politics is not a good recourse for people. “Those who opposed Lokpal should not be voted in the 2014 elections. The people should appoint their own candidate and inform us. They will be appointed after verification of character, social service and patriotism. I will not contest elections nor form a party, but will attempt at giving an alternative to the people,” Mr Hazare wrote.
The social activist also criticised political parties over disclosures related to donations. “Many industrialists give huge donations to political parties. But the amount, which ranges in crores, is broken into small proportions and then disclosed,” he said.