Indian PM seeks end to hunger-strike protest

Anti-graft activist Anna Hazare claims to have dropped six kilograms

India’s Prime Minister has reached out to other parties, hoping to stem the political fall-out from an ongoing hunger-strike by anti-corruption activist Anna Hazare. Hazare says he has lost six kilograms during the protest, which has galvanized India and caused chaos for the political class. Hazare, a former local politician, has called for Indians to rise up in a “second freedom struggle,” this time against corruption (the first being against the British). Hazare has demanded the government pass stringent new anti-corruption legislation. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met with lawmakers from all parties Wednesday, but remains hesitant to give in to all of Hazare’s demands.

Al Jazeera English

The Observer