Mulayam criticises Centre for ''pro-US'' foreign policy

Kanpur, May 7: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav today claimed India's image in the international arena had faded due to the faulty foreign policy, being pursued under the influence of the Bush administration.

Mr Yadav alleged the centre was working under the US directives and had sidetracked from its non-aligned policies.

He was here to lay the foundation of a girls' hostel and training centre at Anjuman Yatimkhana Islamia.

''With its recent policies vis-a-vis Muslim countries such as Iran, Iraq and Afghanistan, India has lost its reputation in these nations and also become unpopular in the sub-continent.'' Praising Dr Ram Manohar Lohia's foreign policy, he said India was a big power in South Asia, but it was gradually losing its status due to pro-American tilt.

''US does not want India to emerge as big power in the international arena. The centre has succumbed to their pressure.'' Although Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister, the country is being ruled by Congress president Sonia Gandhi, since all policy decisions are taken by her, he alleged.

Supporting the freedom movement in Nepal, Mr Yadav suggested King Gyanendra to restore all democratic power to people's elected representatives. ''The King can rule on the pattern of Queen of Britain,'' he said.

UNI