Maha netas mull over 'Anna effect' on impending polls

MUMBAI: Beleaguered Maharashtra politicians heaved a sigh of relief as veteran activist Anna Hazare withdrew his fast unto death since the Centre accepted his demands.
Though it will take time for the Lokpal Bill to become an Act, state leaders are worried about the impact of his fast in Delhi during the polls in Maharashtra between 2011 to 2012.
The Congress and NCP, which have been holding a series of meetings to decide whether to have an alliance for these elections or go it solo, have taken note of the possibility of Anna's impact on the polls.The leaders of the two ruling parties are working out a strategy to deflect Anna's effect.
Ten civic bodies and over 100 municipal councils in the state will go to polls between 2011 to 2012. Elections to zilla parishads in 27 districts are also scheduled during this period. Political parties are aware of Anna Hazare's influence on voters in the state.
In the past, due to Anna's crusade, six state ministers had to resign, 400 corrupt officers were dismissed and the Union government had to give up a proposal to amend the Central RTI Act.
The BJP and the Shiv Sena were quick to support the crusader when he went on a fast in Delhi. While the Congress feels that it would not be affected as party president Sonia Gandhi had supported Anna's stir over the Lokpal Bill.