Corruption involved in decision to allow FDI in retail: Kejriwal

Team Anna member Arvind Kejriwal alleged on Monday that the Union government's decision to allow foreign direct investment in the retail sector is linked to corruption.

"While the government of India is dragging its feet on bringing in an effective Lokpal Bill for a long time, why there is so much of hurry in allowing foreign direct investment in the retail sector. I see there is corruption involved in this decision," Kejriwal said.

He asserted that Anna Hazare would resume his campaign against the government if the Parliament fails to pass an effective Lokpal Bill during the winter session. Backing former Indian Police Service officer and fellow Team Anna member Kiran Bedi in the cases registered against her by the Delhi police following court orders, he said that they had enough evidence to defend her.

"We have booked Ramlila ground from December 27 till January 5 where Anna would launch a protest if the government fails in its duty to ensure passage of Lokpal Bill. It is better to press the Government of India rather than persuade all the states and Union Territories to do the needful. If the Centre does it, the states and UT's will follow," he added.

Abhishek Manu Singvi, chairman of the Standing Committee on Law, Justice and Personnel, said that the bill should be ready in next ten days and would be introduced in Parliament. Anti-corruption clauses would also be applicable to the private sector and media.