'Talks can begin only after Jan Lokpal is tabled in Parl'

New Delhi, Aug 23: Team Anna today (Aug 23) said talks can begin with the government only when it takes the first step of restoring "trust and confidence" by introducing the Jan Lokpal Bill in Parliament and made it clear that the Gandhian's agitation and fast will continue till then.

Swami Agnivesh, a core member of Team Anna, said the government has indicated keenness to enter into negotiations with them, but it is at a very "unofficial" stage.

"But we cannot say to what extent that there is a desire from central ministers who got in touch with me and they say they are very soon going to talk to the Prime Minister. Monday night, there was a meeting," he told reporters at the Ramlila Maidan here.

He also said there were a series of meetings on the issue at the government-level.

"And hopefully they have agreed to introduce Jan Lokpal Bill. If it is done that will be the first step to restore confidence and trust. Then only some talks can being," Agnivesh said.

He said the Hazare group was not by anyway talking of withdrawing the agitation or fast.

"Unless there is something concrete in writing then only we will take some decision," he said.

PTI