AAP has challenged established institutions: Amartya Sen

New Delhi, Dec 14: Nobel-winning economist Amartya Sen on Saturday said the rise of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is an "important departure" in politics which has challenged the established institutions.

Speaking during a debate, Sen also said that social activist Anna Hazare's staying away from the "crusade" was not a wise move.

He also criticised the Supreme Court's recent verdict of recriminalising gay sex in India, saying it is a violation of the protection of the minority rights.

Infosys mentor Narayana Murthy, who was also present on the occasion, praised the AAP and its leader Arvind Kejriwal saying that they have proved the fact that if one has powerful messages, elections can be won even with little money. He said Kejriwal has given hope to a lot of people across various cities of the country.

Sen said the SC's verdict on gay sex violated protection of minority rights

Former Union minister Arun Shourie said the AAP's rise was a "stunning announcement" for political parties that the common man is fed up. He said other parties will feel compelled to field better candidates from here on. Shourie, however, said that Kejriwal's economic policies are "regressive" and will "damage conomic growth" and will lead to "social tensions".

Jurist Fali S Nariman, who was also present in th debate, said in reference to the recent Supreme Court verdict on homosexuality that he always had a reservation on important matters being dealt with a bench of two judges.

OneIndia News