Take oath to not vote for money: Thackeray

Mumbai, Aug 29: Appealing to people to brace up for the unfinished battle against corruption, Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray has said electorates should take a pledge to not exercise their franchise in lieu of money.

In a statement issued here on Sunday late night, Thackeray said the practice of bribing voters adds to corruption and should be nipped in the bud.

"Only then corruption can be rooted out. If elected representatives win polls by bribing voters, what will Lokpal do," he said.

Referring to social activist Anna Hazare's statement that only a half battle against corruption has been won, Thackeray said the initial tirade against graft was a tough task and people should ready themselves to finish the remaining battle.

Expressing need to prepare a blueprint to finish corruption, the Shiv Sena supremo said after all Parliament comprises of the representatives elected by common people from among themselves.

Thackeray further said corruption takes place even in the secret ballot system and should be done away with.

PTI