Oppn frowns at Maya ‘rally’

The venue of Chief Minister Mayawati’s proposed September 17 rally in Lucknow has raised eyebrows,particularly of Opposition leaders.

While the BSP leaders remained tight-lipped over the venue,sources in UP Rajkiya Niram Nigam (UPRNN) said the rally will be organised at the land that was vacated after the demolition of the Model Jail,Nari Bandi Nikestan and District Jail. The site is close to the Kanshiram Samarak Sthal. Interestingly,the demolition of the District Jail began on Monday,and over 30 bulldozers and hydraulic loaders have been pressed into action to remove the debris. An UPRNN official said,“We are asked to clear the ground by Wednesday evening.”

According to the BJP,the rally,if held,will violate the legal norms. Party spokesperson H N Dixit said the state government has already identified Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan for holding public meetings and rallies.

“First Mayawati used to hold rallies at the Ambedkar Rally Maidan on VIP road,which she later converted into a memorial. Then she shifted to Ramabai Rally Sthal on Bijnor road for rallies. A rally on the demolished jail’s ground will be illegal because the state government has already informed the court that it will construct an eco-park in the area,” said Subodh Srivastava,chief spokesperson of UPCC.