New Delhi, Aug 17 (PTI):Amid storm over Anna Hazare's arrest, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh told Parliament that the civil activist was trying to “impose” his version of Lokpal Bill and his “totally misconceived” path was fraught with ”dangerous consequences” for Parliamentary democracy.

Performing the “painful duty” of reporting to Parliament on events related to Hazare's arrest, Singh said the activist and six of his associates were held because of apprehension of breach of peace. Though the government acknowledges the right of citizens to hold peaceful protests, yet permission needs to be given with “appropriate conditions”.

Bowing to demands by the agitated united Opposition, Singh made identical statement on the issue in both Houses of Parliament but his defence of police action was rejected with Opposition members accusing the government of being arrogant and equating its “repressive” action with British rule.

The Prime Minister insisted that the government does not seek any “confrontation” with any section of the society.

”But when some sections of society deliberately challenge the authority of government and prerogative of Parliament, it is the absolute duty of the government to maintain peace and tranquillity,” he asserted.

”Hazare may be inspired by high ideals in his campaign to set up a strong and effective Lokpal. However, the path that he has chosen to impose his draft of a bill upon Parliament is totally misconceived and fraught with grave consequences for our Parliamentary democracy,” he said amid repeated jeers and chants of 'shame shame'.

Singh appealed to all political parties to ensure that the government and its processes and Parliament and its processes function smoothly and effectively.