Maharashtra rules out further talks with anti-graft activist

The Maharashtra government has said it does not want to hold any more talks with anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare who is on a fast unto death since most of his demands have been met.

Under pressure from Hazare, the state Cabinet on Wednesday approved a draft legislation regulating transfers of government officials and reducing administrative delays. Earlier, one of the main demands of the social worker, the Maharashtra Right to Information Bill that will bring more transparency to government deals, was given an assent by President A.P.J. Kalam.

While Hazare's demand for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the corruption charges against Suresh Jain, Minister of Food and Civil Supplies, and three others was rejected by Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde, the latter, however, agreed to a judicial probe by a one-judge committee. But Hazare is demanding an inquiry by a three-judge committee.

Hazare wants the resignation of four ministers including Jain, all belonging to the Nationalist Congress Party, for using their position to enhance their personal interests.

These are Irrigation Minister Padmsinh Patil, Minister of State for General Administration Vijaykumar Gavit, Minister of State for Housing Nawab Malik and Jain.