Sonia appeals for end to UP 'mafia rule'

Kanpur, Apr 5 (UNI) Congress president Sonia Gandhi today made a fervent appeal to the people for their support against the ''mafia rule and plunder'' perpetuated by the Mulayam Singh Yadav-led Uttar Pradesh government.

Addressing an election meeting here, Ms Gandhi said ''criminals, mafia and goondas were ruling the roost, which should now come to an end. ''I am fighting the present sorry state of affairs in UP and I am here to ask for your support.'' She said the ''mafia rule'' must end for the development, progress and prosperity in UP.

Without naming Mr Yadav, the Congress chief put the state government in dock several times during her 15 minute speech.

''UP, which showed light to India is lagging in development.'' She claimed anarchy prevailed in UP and women are not safe, while traders feared the mafia.

Referring to Nithari, Ms Gandhi added that children ''were being bucthered and no section of society was safe. ''Farmers are facing hardships, old businesses are facing closure, there is shortage of power and water...'' The Congress leader said minorities, dalits and poor sections were being harrased in the state.

''The time has come to usher in development in UP in every sphere of life,'' she observed.

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