Supreme Court refuses to lift ban on Mayawati's memorials

New Delhi, Feb 9 (ANI): The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to rescind the ban on the construction of Dalit memorial parks and statues in Lucknow, delivering a major setback to the Mayawati Government.

The apex court however, asked the Allahabad High Court to give its judgement on all pending cases against Mayawati within four months and permitted the State Government to continue with maintenance related works.

A two-judge bench comprising Justices J M Panchal and A K Patnaik said this would include removal of debris and cleaning of parks and memorials.

Mayawati has been accused of using taxpayers' money to build these parks in memory of Dalit icons, including herself.

Some cases are being heard by the Allahabad High Court.

Mayawati had asked that all cases be clubbed together and heard in the Supreme Court.

The apex court had earlier reserved its order on all construction and maintenance activities at these sites. (ANI)