Wipro's Azim Premji backs govt on reform steps, asks opposition to be 'constructive'

BANGALORE: Azim Premji, who has been a vocal critic of drifting governance, has lauded the United Progressive Alliance for the reform measures it has initiated in recent weeks. The 67-year-old chairman of Wipro also asked the opposition, led by the Bharatiya Janta Party, to adopt a "more constructive" approach, words that will be music to those in the ruling alliance.

"Government has taken some positive reform measures. There seems to be a renewed focus," he told reporters at a press conference to announce the quarterly results of India's third-largest software company.

"I also hope the opposition will be more constructive in the parliament in winter session," he added, putting the onus on the National Democratic Alliance led by the BJP to show its commitment to measures which have the backing of the country's top business leaders.

"The center has brought in a new set of ministers and they have been given a very clear message: to show results. It looks like things are moving in the right direction."

Premji's remarks echo those of Infosys cofounder N R Narayana Murthy, who said last month that he was heartened by the government's recent policy decisions which include opening up multibrand retail to foreign investors and reform of fuel subsidies.

With business leaders lining up behind the government's renewed reforms push, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will get extra elbow reform to take the tough measures that will be required to spur growth and rein in fiscal deficit. Backing from Premji, in particular, is significant given his previous criticism of the government.

Twice last year, a group of 14 eminent citizens, among them Premji and Deepak Parekh of HDFC, wrote open letters to India's leaders urging swift action to improve governance.

The billionaire businessman and philanthropist, who has pledged nearly Rs 9,000 crore to the cause of education, was also concerned about rollbacks by the government.

"Let's keep our fingers crossed and hope there will be no reversal of policy."