Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said those who have taken to Naxalism and terrorism should learn from Mr Anna Hazare’s anti-corruption campaign as it has reinforced confidence in the strength of non-violence which is “in the DNA of Indians”.
“Those who have taken the path of Naxalism and terrorism must recognise the power of non-violence, it will make India stronger and serve humanity,” Mr Modi tweeted minutes after Mr Hazare broke his fast on the 13th day of the agitation on the Jan Lokpal Bill issue.
Emphasising the importance of non-violence, Mr Modi said, “For many of us who did not witness the independence struggle, anti-corruption movement reinforces confidences in the strength of non-violence. The past and the present proves the fact that non-violence is in the DNA of Indians.
“It (non-violence) will make India stronger and serve humanity,” Mr Modi said on Twitter. Quoting the Gandhian, he said, “Anna says the battle is only half won. Efforts to bring back black money, which has held the nation back should be accelerated.”
Mr Modi has been critical of the Centre on the Lokpal Bill issue and has accused it of adopting “double standards” with regards to Mr Hazare and his team.
Last week, Mr Modi had alleged that the Congress-led UPA government was using “anti-democratic” means to “wipe out” Mr Hazare’s movement against corruption.