Supporters of social activist Anna Hazare, who is on a fast-unto-death here demanding a more stringent anti-corruption law, prevented political leaders from meeting him on Wednesday.
"We don't want any party or individual to give our protest a political shade. That's why when a political
leader tried to come here today, he was sent away," Hazare said.
On day two of Hazare's fast at Jantar Mantar, a short distance from Parliament House, thousands came forward in support of his crusade, making it one of the most supported mass movements in recent times.
Om Prakash Chautala of the Indian National Lok Dal party, former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Uma Bharti and BJP leader Madan Lal Khurana came to Jantar Mantar along with their supporters Wednesday, but were prevented from approaching a dais where the 72-year-old activist was sitting on fast.
With the people shouting slogans against them, the leaders made a quick exit without meeting Hazare.