On 5th of April 2011 the Indian social activist and Gandhian Kisan Bapat Baburao Hazare, respectfully called "Anna" (older Brother), started a "fast unto death" to exert leverage on the Government of India to enact an efficient anti-corruption law as envisaged in the already existing but blocked Jan Lokpal Bill. This law should establish an ombudsman with the power to deal with corruption in public offices. This initiative led to nationwide protests in support of Anna Hazare. Hundreds of his fellow campaigners joined in the hunger strike. After 4 days the Indian Government saw itself constrained to retreat and gave the okay to start new negotiations, with the participations of Anna Hazare, about the Lokpal Bill.The Indian public seemed relieved that someone made the first move and reacted immediately: telestations broadcasted live for hours, actors and sportsmen assured their support and people of every age took to the street and demonstrated for more justice and a new Indian spirit.
Even the people of Kutch joined a rally organized by Kutch Nav Nirman Abhiyan in Bhuj to support Anne Hazare's act. On the 8th of April 2011 hundreds of citizens came out into the streets, carrying placards and stating slogans. "Anna Hazare age bhado!" (Anna Hazare go ahead!) and "Hindustan jaga hai!" (India is awake!) people shouted relentlessly, even during the coming together at Hamirsar Lake, where Abhiyan trustees such as Lalbhai and Adakaka spoke to the people. After the speeches, every participant went to the Mahatma Gandhi statue to light a candle, as a symbol for the non-violent protest.
