Kisan Bapat Baburao Hazare

Kisan Bapat Baburao Hazare

I write this article to show the brighter side of a tenacious soldier, a social reformer, and a Right to Information crusader, Kisan Bapat Baburao Hazare.

Recipient of PADMABHUSHAN, PADMASHRI AWARD is one of India's well-acclaimed social activists. A former soldier in the Indian army, Anna is well known and respected for upgrading the ecology and economy of the village of Ralegan Siddhi which is located in the drought prone Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra state.

Any government never wants to decentralize its power and hand over power to people. Many politicians think that decentralization of power will lessen their importance, status and respect. So the Government was reluctant to make legislation for Right to Information.

Finally, with zeal of ‘do-or-die’, Mr. Hazare went on fast-unto-death on August 9, 2003 at Azad Maidan, Mumbai. He decided that unless the Act is passed by the Government, he will not end his fast; rather he will sacrifice his life for people’s rights.

The Government of Maharashtra felt that his resolution is firm and He would not step back from his decision of ‘do-or-die’. On the 12th day of his fast, the Government of Maharashtra got the Bill signed by the President of India and enacted the law of ‘Right to Information’ in Maharashtra. The Act on ‘Right to Information’ is a revolutionary step towards strengthening democracy.

A common man of such strength, stature and self zeal is fighting for the other Common man. Is the zest to fight for the right lost? Has the dark preceded? Isn't might is right?

I have taken an initiative to contribute my part in this movement. I want to feel the passion of fighting for Rights.

Youth- not merely a word but a collective power to overcome the tyranny. People, start playing your part. Let's join hands to ignite the power that lies within.

Can I say that a new Era has begun?