In his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said banning the notes was just the first step in the fight against corruption and black money. He added that "incisive law' against benami property was next. "In the coming days, this law will also become operational."
The PM stated that a "benami property" law was promulgated in 1988, but it was dormant for 28 years because rules had not been framed. "I assure you that this is not the end. This is just the beginning in our fight against corruption. We have to win this war against corruption and black money. There is no question of stopping or going back in this fight," Modi said. Defending the constant changing of rules of demonetisation, he said, "Another issue which comes up is this, why are rules changed time and again? This government is for the sake of the people. The government continuously endeavours to take feedback from them. What are the areas of difficulty for the people? What are the rules that are creating hindrances... The government, being a sensitive government, amends rules as required, keeping the convenience of the people as its foremost consideration, so that citizens are not subjected to hardships."
He also took a dig at the opposition who have been expressive of their skepticism. "People who cannot endorse corruption and black money openly resort to finding fault with the government relentlessly," Modi said. Referring to the arrests of "influential persons" and seizure of currency notes, the PM said the source of information behind this crackdown was the common man.
