Lalu demands Presidents' rule in Uttar Pradesh

Patna, Feb 17: RJD supremo and Railway Minister Lalu Prasad today demanded dismissal of the Mulayam Singh government and imposition of President's rule in Uttar Pradesh, in view of Supreme Court verdict disqualifying 13 BSP legislators.

Speaking to mediapersons here, Mr Prasad said that the Samajwadi Party-led UP government was formed with support from members, who has now been disqualified, following the Supreme Court verdict.

''Hence, Mr Yadav have forfeited all rights to continue in office, he noted.

He, however, clarified that his party, in principle, still opposed dislodging any democratically-elected government.

''An extraordinary situation has arisen in Uttar Pradesh following the apex court's verdict and subversion of the Constitution has been proven with the judgement,'' he maintained.

On reported opposition by left parties, towards any move to dislodge the UP government, Mr Prasad dismissed any scope for debate on the issue.

''We shall talk to all partners and supporters of UPA, including the Left parties, on the matter '' he said.

Mr Prasad was apprehensive whether free and fair election would be possible under the present circumstances and asserted that the dismissal of the present government had become imperative to stop abuse of power ''during elections.

UNI