Anna Hazare Galvanises the Nation for a Strong Lokpal Bill

Anna Hazare's one-day fast in protest against the proposals of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Lokpal Bill at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi - PTI

Lokpal activist Anna Hazare on Sunday vowed to continue his anti-corruption crusade, and if need be hold street protests and fill jails, till the government heeds the will of the people for a strong Lokpal law.

Addressing a huge gathering at Jantar Mantar, Hazare threatened to intensify the stir by courting arrest if the government fails to pass a law in parliament's winter session for a strong Lokpal that covers the bureaucracy and the prime minister.

"The government should listen to the voice of the people. Agitation will continue for a strong Lokpal," said Hazare, flanked by leaders of various political parties.

Hazare has called upon the opposition to join the fight.

"If government hesitates in passing a strong Lokpal Bill or rejects your suggestions and if you (opposition) fall short of numbers, we can do one thing. The people are here with us."

"You can join us with all your parties and partymen and come to the streets for a larger campaign. Let us see how the government does not do it."

Thousands were present at Jantar Mantar for the rally.

As the crowd swelled by the hour, India Against Corruption activists tried to control the deluge by erecting temporary barriers but to no avail.

Around 1,000 police and paramilitary personnel were deployed at the venue.

Anna Hazare sits on his third fast for a strong Lokpal Bill