All Indians are hoping with bated breath that the Lok Sabha passes the resolution on the JLPB, especially the three sticking points today even if it means extending the session late into the night. On the resolution hinges Anna's decision to end the fast. We cannot take chances with his health.

Anna has also resolved to continue his protest at Ram Lila grounds until the JLPB issue is fully resolved. His supporters the world over must maintain the momentum and intensity of the protest.

I am sure, Anna will now seriously address other long pending issues such as electoral reforms. What we need first is a law that prevents people with criminal record entering our parliament.

We also need to ensure that the right to recall an MP or MLA must also be included as also the option of 'None of the above', if our elections have to become meaningful. Anna has already mentioned this point in his many talks with his supporters.

While on the subject of electoral reforms we must also very seriously consider the continued usefulness or otherwise of the Rajya Sabha and Upper Houses of Legislature in some of our States. It, prima facie, serves little useful purpose and is a big drain on the exchequer. Upper Houses in the States as also the Rajya Sabha have for many decades been 'rehabilitation centres' for defeated leaders. Those nominated from other walks of life, (few exceptions apart) have by their own admission hardly ever made any comment leave aside contribution. Why then should we continue wasting precious money on this dead institution?

But today the priority is to pass the resolution so that Anna can break his fast.

Rahul Gandhi's suggestion that the Lokpal should be a Constitutional Appointment is clearly a red herring to divert the attention and delay the proceedings. I think it was in very poor taste. He simply does not understand the gravity of the cureent situation or worse, does not care.