Anti-corruption Bill passed in Rajya Sabha, a step away from becoming law

Rajya Sabha, the Upper House of the Parliament has passed the Lokpal Bill, just a step away from becoming a law, the Lower House will take it up the matter later today. PM Manmohan Singh has called it as a "landmark step".

Christians have been supporting and demanding a strong Lokpal Bill since its agitation started intensified.

After Lok Sabha's approval, it will be sent to the President whose assent is necessary for it to become a law.

Lokpal Bill will provide for creation of an anti-corruption ombudsman in the country. Anti-corruption crusader and social activist Anna Hazare who is on fast once again this time in his home town in Maharashtra from December 10. He has welcomed the passing of the Lokpal Bill in the Rajya Sabha, but said he would end his fast only after it is passed in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.

The Gandhian thanked all political parties for ensuring the passage of the Lokpall Bill in the Lower House. And it specially grateful to Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi for the passage of the Lokpal and Lokayukta Bill, 2013 in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday evening.

The proposed law provides for a Lokpal or national ombudsman to investigate corruption charges against public functionaries.

Among the amendments accepted by the government are delinking of the mandatory creation of lokayuktas by the state governments, one of the provisions which had stalled the passage of the bill in December 2011.

Reacting to the passing of The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Bill, 2011 in Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said, "Passing of Lokpal Bill is a landmark step."

He also congratulated his parliamentary colleagues for supporting the government in the effort.

Christian leaders from various denominations have been demanding and supporting the making of a strong Lokpal Bill since its agitation got intensified with Anna Hazare in the front.

Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) in August 2011 had welcomed the government's decision in seeking suggestions from public on the contentious Lokpal Bill.

EFI pointed to the spread of corruption in India's public and personal life and said Dalit, tribal, poor and minority communities have faced the brunt with a deep sense of desperation.

A joint statement issued by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) and Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) in November 2011 stated that though the laws alone cannot wipe out corruption, a strong legislation is required to fight the social evil.