21 MLAs promises support to Mulayam before UP Governor

Lucknow, Nov 24 (UNI) In a significant political development, 21 legislators from different political parties today paraded before the Uttar Pradesh Governor T V Rajeswar in support of the Mulayam Singh Yadav government following apprehension of withdrawal of support by the Rashtriya Lok Dal(RLD).

Of the total 21 MLAs, 12 belonged to the BJP, six Independents, two BSP and one Congress. Five of the BJP MLAs have already been declared as unattached by the Speaker.

All these MLAs have joined the ruling Samajwadi Party during the past six months and they have either been suspended or expelled from their parent political parties.

During their about one hour chat with the Governor, these MLAs escorted by state revenue minister Ambika Choudhary, Transport Minister Naresh Agarwal and others, informed in written that they were supporting the present government in the state for its good work and commitment for the all round development of the state.

The action of the SP, apparently, was necessitated following apprehension of withdrawal of support by RLD's Ajit Singh after his yesterday's meeting with the governor. RLD has 15 MLAs and are at present supporting the state government.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting with the governor, state minister Naresh Agarwal said these MLAs had gone to the Rajbhawan to give their 'official' support to the government. Two other BJP MLAs Sandeep Agarwal and Chotey Lal Yadav, who are also in support, could not present themselves today, he claimed.

'' These MLAs would also support the government inside the assembly if the opposition have the courage to bring no-confidence motion in the ongoing session'', he said.

Though the SP leaders put up a brave face denying any apprehension of RLD withdrawing support from the government, but said these MLAs now wanted their support to be official. ''It has nothing to do with the speculation of withdrawal of support by the RLD,'' they maintained.

Mr Ambika Choudhury claimed that the government was already enjoying full majority in the assembly and challenged the opposition to bring a no-confidence motion against the government.

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