Anna Hazare ends fast with a call for vigil

Social activist Anna Hazare, who Wednesday ended his nine-day long fast here after the Lok Sabha passed the Lokpal bill, called for remaining "ever vigilant".

"The bill has been passed by both houses of parliament. But we cannot be complacent. The real work will begin now. We must remain ever vigilant," said Hazare, who accepted a glass of water from two school children to break his fast.

The 76-year-old leader said now the people must remain alert to ensure that people of integrity are appointed to the posts of Lokpal at the centre and the Lokayuktas in states and all norms are properly fulfilled to make the law truly effective.

"We must also create awareness about the law among the masses so that they can understand and take benefit of the historic Lokpal institution," Hazare said, adding that he would take a lead in the matter by touring the country and publishing literature on the issue.

As the frail Hazare sipped water flanked by former IPS officer Kiran Bedi and former army chief General (Retd) V.K. Singh, thousands of supporters cheered, waved the national flag and raised cries of "Jai Hind", "Vande Mataram" and "Bharat Mata ki Jai".