Hazare, VK Singh seek dissolution of Parliament

In a stinging attack on the government today, former army chief Gen (retd) VK Singh, who has joined Anna Hazare in his crusade against corruption, demanded immediate dissolution of Parliament. VK Singh demands dissolution of Parliament

A new-look Team Anna on Monday mounted a scathing attack on the UPA government and sought immediate dissolution of Parliament, saying the two pillars of democracy were not acting in the manner enshrined in the Constitution.

Heralding formation of a new movement against corruption, Anna Hazare and former Army chief General VK Singh targeted the "unconstitutional" UPA government over decisions like FDI in multi-brand retail.

Addressing a joint press conference in Mumbai, Singh said the government had taken the controversial decision on FDI despite being in minority.

"As per the Constitution, India is a welfare state in which a democratically elected government is duty bound to protect and improve the lives of the people. However, the current system has completely ignored the directive principles enshrined in the constitution and has surrendered to market forces," Singh said.

"Parliament should be dissolved and fresh elections held," he said, reading from a prepared statement.

Hazare endorsed Singh and said they had jointly prepared the statement.

The government policies were being framed to benefit private businesses instead of the common man and no one was raising voice against this in Parliament, the retired general said.

Elections should be held to allow formation of a new government which works for people, he said, adding "Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has ignored the principle of collective responsibility."

Anna Hazare and former Army chief Gen VK Singh address a press meet in Mumbai. PTI/Shashank Parade