NEW DELHI: Anna Hazare's long-time close aides from Bhrashtrachar Virodhi Jan Andolan Nyas (BVJAN) say they are working along with India Against Corruption (IAC) and while there might be some differences in their ways of working, both groups have the same objective.
"We and IAC are working together. There may be some difference in the way of working, but our agenda is the same, and we will continue to work together," BVJAN secretary Allauddin Sheikh told IANS by phone.
Sheikh, who has been working with Hazare for the past 15 years, was reported to have said IAC was misusing Anna Hazare's simplicity. He, however, clarified that he called Hazare simple in a different context.
"He is a democratic person. If someone suggests something, he accepts it readily. He is a simple person in his way of life, but no one can misguide him," he said.
BVJAN vice president Ashok Sabban noted that "no one can make him (Hazare) do something he disagrees to".
The BVJAN activists also denied having termed the IAC to be a forefront of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
"I had pointed out (to Hazare) the mistakes that were made. Like keeping the image of 'Bharat Mata' when he sat on fast first time. The message that went out was that IAC is supported by the RSS; they could have chosen any other portrait," Sabban told IANS.
"The second time they realised this, but why such mistakes should be committed. Some people also believe that IAC is against the Dalits, they should not let such messages go," he added.
Sheikh also denied he had said there were links between Hazare and RSS.
"We never said Anna-ji is working with RSS. Anna-ji is inclined towards no party or group. He meets people from all sections of society," he said.
Sheikh also said that Hazare was not anti-Congress, as believed.
"Some people say he is against the Congress, but that is not true. He is only against the present government and its policies," he said.
Hazare has been campaigning for a strong Lokpal, and was hospitalised soon after his latest fast for the anti-corruption legislation was called off due to his ill-health. He was discharged from the hospital Sunday and returned to his village Ralegan Siddhi.