CM apologises for alleged statement on Biharis

New Delhi, May 10 (UNI) Following uproar caused in various parts of the country, including in Parliament, by her alleged statement that people from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh coming to settle in Delhi put a burden on its infrastructure, Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit today apologised for the hurt caused by her statement.

''I am sorry to learn that the Lok Sabha was agitated over my alleged statement and the House could not discharge its functions. I sincerely regret and extend my apology for this unfortunate happening,''the Chief Minister said in a written statement released by her at a jam-packed press conference here.

The apology came after the alleged statement by the Chief Minister evoked condemnation from several quarters and caused uproar in several parts of the country. The issue also led to disruption of proceedings in the Lok Sabha.

Railway Minister Lalu Prasad also described as ''unfortunate'' and ''injudicious'' the alleged statement by Mrs Dikshit.

Reiterating that she had no intention of hurting the sentiments of anybody, Mrs Dikshit said,''I unequivocally state that I did not hurt the sentiments of any section of the people of Delhi.

I am fully aware of the constributions made by people coming from outside, especially from UP and Bihar, in the development of Delhi.'' More UNI AR VD HT1717