Click to play videoNew Delhi: It is a head-to-head battle now between social activist Anna Hazaare and Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi. On his day-long fast at Jantar Mantar, the anti corruption crusader made it clear that it was Rahul Gandhi who is responsible for Lokpal deadlock.
Anna said, "When the Prime Minister has given in writing... then who can be behind that. It is Rahul Gandhi. Who else can influence? I think who has the courage to influence or to go against?"
Anna's return to Jantar Mantar in the capital this time had strong political overtones. Joining him on the stage were BJP's Arun Jaitely, CPIM's Brinda Karat and other leaders from the Opposition.
But it was clear that they were simply interested in using this platform to embarras the already embattled UPA.
Arun Jaitely said the "sense of house was ignored" and demanded that the Prime Minister and lower bureaucracy be brought under Lokpal ambit.
Brinda Karat said, "Anna's andolan shows the strength of the people. Though we do not agree that all politicians are corrupt, I hope Team Anna will do think of this."
The Congress may have chosen not to come for this public debate but the pressure was clearly showing.
Union Minister Pawan Bansal said, "The politicians who are sharing the dais with Anna have been stalling Parliament."
CNN-IBN has learnt that a cabinet meeting has been called on December 19. There is a likelihood of the government conceding the demand of Team Anna on inclusion of the Prime Minister with a few riders under Lokpal.
Even Group C and D employees could ultimately be put under the Lokpal.
Anna has spelt out clearly - either it's his way or he is already preparing for another round at Ramlila Maidan by the month end - a prospect the government would best like to avoid.
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