UDF to contest 200 seats in UP Assembly polls

Lucknow, Feb 11 (UNI) The United Democratic Front (UDF) led by Sahi Jama Maszid Shahi Imam Syed Ahmed Bhukari today announced to contest at least 200 seats in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls.

''So far, we have identified at least 200 seats and will finalise others by February 28,'' said Maulana Bhukari.

Opposing the Congress, Samajwadi Party (SP), Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), the UDF Chairman said the doors are open for an alliance with smaller secular parties but only on a condition which will benefit the minority community.

''We can think of supporting the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) if Ms Mayawati vows that she will not join with the BJP in the post-poll scenario,'' he added.

The UDF chairman also disclosed that two political parties are in touch with him but refused to name them, saying ''the names will be announced at an appropriate time.'' Criticising the Congress after the Sachar Committee report, he said they had done nothing in the past nor will do anything for the minorities in the future. ''While the SP had insulted the Muslims during their regime, the BJP is now ''targeting'' them through communal riots with the help of the Mulayam Singh yadav government,'' the Maulana alleged.

The Front has, however, suspended its 'dharna' programme which was to be held in front of the Assembly tomorrow. Now, this agitation against rape of two Madarsa students of Allahabad and Nithari case will be held on February 26.

The UDF has also decided to hold meetings at Lakhimpurkehri, Ghaziabad, Bijnour, Kanpur, Saharanpur and other places before March 10.

UNI