New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) The Congress party Sunday hit back at social activist Anna Hazare saying the Gandhian is "himself involved in corruption" and this has been proved by the Supreme Court-appointed Justice Sawant Commission.


Addressing a press conference after the 74-year-old Hazare wrote to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh seeking his intervention over Delhi Police restrictions on his fast against the government's Lokpal Bill from Aug 16 at J.P. Park in the capital.

"Anna Hazare has not only insulted the Indian prime minister by saying with what face he will hoist the flag at Red Fort but has insulted the Indian flag and people who gave life for the country's freedom," said Congress spokesperson Manish Tewari.

He alleged that while Hazare talks about fighting against corruption, he has been involved in corruption.

"He himself is involved in several cases of corruption. This has been proved by the apex court appointed Justice Sawant Commission. The commission found that Anna runs several NGOs and money was spent illegally for his birthday celebration," alleged Tewari.

Angry at the Delhi Police restrictions, Hazare Saturday accused the government of betraying the nation's trust, and said if he had known it would cheat, he would not have called off his April fast.

The prime minister denied any role in the decision and suggested Hazare take up the matter with police.

The commission's report was submitted to the Maharashtra government in 2005 and made serious corruption charges against Hazare.