“One of the most important people who has Mr. Hazare’s ancient ear is Kiran Bedi, a serious woman with short hair combed sideways and clever eyes full of meaning. She not only whispers to Mr. Hazare; she also usually sits beside him when he is on television. In August, as Mr. Hazare fasted on the dais, she threw a towel over her face and playacted to show that politicians cannot be trusted because they wear masks.”

“days ago, her own little scam was exposed. It turns out that Ms. Bedi has been using the Gallantry Award to buy discounted air tickets and charging her hosts — public function organizers and the like — full business-class fares. Ms. Bedi does not deny this. She says that she fudged the bills to feed her organization, which provides social services that includes spreading literacy and improving the condition of impoverished women.”