UPCC demands resignation of CM Khanduri

Dehra Dun, Aug 11 (UNI) The Uttarakhand Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC) today demanded the resignation of Chief Minister B C Khanduri saying he had lost faith of his own party a day after 22 MLAs met BJP President Rajnath Singh in Delhi seeking his replacement.

Leaving no opportunity to increase pressure on Mr Khanduri, Leader of the Opposition Harak Singh Rawat began his one-day long fast at the Gandhi Park here to protest attacks on Universities and colleges by student organisations associated with the BJP.

''Since coming to power, the BJP government has failed to curb lawlessness in Universities and colleges following violent attacks by organisations like the ABVP'', he said and accused the party of shielding rowdy elements indulging in such acts.

''This atmosphere of lawlessness has academicans reluctant to take up teaching jobs in Universities and colleges in the state'', he said.

On the dissidence within the BJP camp, the Leader of the Opposition said the manner in which 22 legislators led by former chief minister Bhagat Singh Koshiari Mr Singh in Delhi yesterday, was reason enough for the Chief Minister to consider vacating his seat.

''The Chief Minister has lost the faith of his party and should consider resigning'', Mr Rawat said.

UNI PB SK BST1655