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Don't intimidate me: Ramdev hits back at Cong

Don't intimidate me: Ramdev hits back at Cong

Author: CNN-IBN
Publication: IBNLive.com
Date: June 5, 2011
URL: http://ibnlive.in.com/news/dont-intimidate-me-ramdev-hits-back-at-cong/156771-3.html

The dramatic reversal of events on Saturday evening led to a stalemate between the government of India and Baba Ramdev and his followers - just when it seemed a deal had been reached.

This means - for the moment - the hunger strike that was almost called off momentarily - is on, and Baba Ramdev's andolan continues.

Ramdev made it clear after a flip-flop this evening that he won't end his hunger strike until he gets a written agreement from the government on recovering black money.

At the other end at about the same time, the government's interlocutor Kapil Sibal said a deal had been reached. He accused Ramdev of reneging on an agreement. He displayed a copy of the letter written by Ramdev's supporter - which incensed Ramdev.

Sources to CNN-IBN indicate a letter of assurance in writing is now being drafted that addressed all the key demands by Baba Ramdev. This letter will be handed over to him.

Baba Ramdev on Saturday alleged there were attempts to threaten him and said he will not sit back if attacks are unleashed on him. He clarified that the total expenses of the arrangements were already paid and that he and his supporters were ready to pay more if they have to.

Ramdev also slammed those criticising his protest against black money saying that they require medical attention since they are ignorant of the reasons behind the severe step he has taken.

"I am listening to the comments of some people since morning, we have people from all religion and community on this stage. But, those who are criticising us need some mental checkup as they are ignorance about this fact," said Ramdev.

The Congress had earlier on Saturday launched an all-out attack on yoga guru Baba Ramdev and said that there is no magic wand to solve the problems of black money and corruption. Questioning Ramdev's motive behind launching an agitation over his demands for bringing back the black money stashed away in foreign banks and strict action against those accused of corruption, Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi had said that talks are still on with the yoga guru.

"There cannot be any time-bound solution to Ramdev's demands. We don't have a magic wand. Talks are still on, but we will not take any undemocratic step to break the deadlock," said Singhvi.

Ramdev backed the arrangements made for his protest saying that his supporters, the common man, were the ones who paid for it and they were even ready to pay more, if need be.

"This was needed in this high temperature and whatever was spend on this arrangement is done by these common man and they are ready to do more. I have answered to all who are raising questions about this," said Ramdev.

He also said that he did not take up this protest fast with any political intention and that he has also written to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh regarding the same.

"I have written letter to PM on June 4. I have not targeted any party. It's not correct to say I want to create instability in the country. In my letters to the PM I have clarified everything. I will never accept any political post and will never contest election," Ramdev said.

Baba Ramdev told the gathering of his supporters that he was doing everything on the directions of God and there would be a reply to all those who are currently questioning him.

Ramdev maintained his demand of fast track courts for corruption cases and that the property of the corrupt should be attached to the cases. He, however, said that he had postponed his demand for banning the Rs 1000 notes and Rs 500 notes for sometime, but also maintained that he would not give up this demand.

The yoga guru added, "If all my demands are accepted, credit will go to honest Prime Minster Manmohan and to this government."

When asked about Anna Hazare Ramdev said, "I do not want to comment anything about Anna Hazare. We will continue to support him."

A combative Ramdev also added, "Here I am not representing any political party. Some people are saying Baba is RSS and BJP's agent I am not from any political party. I am the agent of 121 crore Indians."

Ramdev, who launched his hunger strike against corruption early on Saturday morning, reaffirmed his demand for declaring black money stashed abroad as national wealth. "Our trust is audited every year and balance sheet is with the government. The government should make it public - I will be very happy."

Baba Ramdev hardened his stand and asked his supporters not to indulge in violence. Ramdev says government agreed to his demands on black money and he will call off his strike after he gets written assurance.

"We were forced to write the letter Kapil Sibal is showing, this is nothing but betrayal."


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