Ayodhya verdict: Maya asks leaders to be vigilant

Although the release issued by the party does not mention the CM’s reference to the court verdict,the leaders who attended meeting confirmed her concern. “She made a brief reference to the pending High Court verdict and asked us to help the government machinery maintain social harmony,” a leader said.

Party insiders said Mayawati also focussed on the leaders’ role in the panchayat elections. “Panchayat elections may be announced at any moment. This election will not be fought on party symbols. Remain cautious during the elections,” one BSP legislator quoted the CM as saying.

The party stated that the CM has strictly banned the use of party flags,party-supported banners and the party’s name in any handbill/poster/poll graffitti during the campaign.

The guidelines also included a clear direction to stop party functionaries from contesting the elections. She made it clear that if a party functionary wants to contest the panchayat elections,he will have to resign his post first. She has stopped even the functionaries of Bhaichara Committee from contesting.

The CM was equally worried about the possible role of her party’s MLAs/MLCs and MPs in the elections. She said if there is more than one candidate having an association with the BSP in the fray,they will keep away from seeking votes in favour of any of them.

“She wanted a complete consensus on the name of candidate. In absence of a consensus,local party supporters will select their candidates,” the leader said.

In view of the elections,Mayawati also asked her coordinators to stop the constitution of the party’s new committees till September 15. “The coordinators can begin only after declaration of poll results,” another legislator said.