Hazare clarifies 'slap the corrupt' remark

By IANS,

Ralegan Siddhi (Maharashtra): Calling criticism of his "slap the corrupt" remark as unfortunate, Anna Hazare Friday said the whole issue has been blown out of proportion by a group of politicians who have been trying hard to tarnish his image.

"It is a conspiracy against me to tarnish my image. It is not the first attempt... there have been many such attempts in the past too but they have failed each time," Hazare wrote in his blog.

The 74-year-old, after watching Hindi film "Gali Gali Chor Hai" Tuesday, had commented that a person has no option but to slap the corrupt when he runs out of tolerance and patience.

His comments drew sharp criticism from several political parties.

Hazare said he never supported or asked people to indulge in violence even during his fast at Ramlila ground in August last year.

"I always appealed to the crowd gathered there to follow non-violence and not get involved in any violent activity. And the massive protest was totally non-violent," he wrote.

Hazare said that he was ready to answer all those people criticising him over the remark.

He further said that his fight against corruption will continue and he would join the Team Anna campaigning ahead of elections in five states as soon as his health improves.