BJP MLC ouster gives Opp hope, Maya the shivers

The expulsion of BJP legislator Ramasheesh Rai for six years ahead of the Assembly session, that begins on August 28, has made things easier...

The expulsion of BJP legislator Ramasheesh Rai for six years ahead of the Assembly session, that begins on August 28, has made things easier for the Opposition which has been waiting for an opportune time to topple the government.

‘‘The Uttar Pradesh government appears fragile at this stage. If the Speaker functions with sincerity, none can prevent the Mayawati government from toppling. I will not give out the number of BJP MLAs and ministers who are in touch with me, but can say for sure that it is enough to ensure this government falls,’’ Rashtriya Kranti Party chief Kalyan Singh told The Indian Express.

Expelled MLC Ramasheesh Rai was more specific. ‘‘At least a dozen party MLAs and an equal number of ministers are in regular touch with Kalyan Singh. The government is surviving on the strength of the Independents after the Lok Dal withdrew support,’’ said Rai, adding that he has called a meeting of his supporters on August 13 to decide the future course of action.

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‘‘We have the support of 26 BJP MLAs and are waiting for the session to topple the government,’’ claimed Rashtriya Lok Dal chief Ajit Singh. ‘‘Speaker Kesri Nath Tripathi ignored democratic norms during the last session. Now will be the time for him to undo the damage,’’ added Kalyan Singh.

The latest developments seem to have unnerved the BJP and BSP leadership. They have called a meeting of party legislators in Lucknow tomorrow to keep their flock together. But Urban Development Minister and BJP Legislature Party leader Lalji Tandon sounded defiant: ‘‘I challenge Ajit Singh to produce even five of our party legislators supporting him.’’

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