Maya orders release of Banda girl; to fast-track MLA trial

Lucknow, Jan 15 (PTI) Uttar Pradesh Chief MinisterMayawati today ordered the release of a jailed backward castegirl who was allegedly raped by a BSP MLA and said action willbe taken against policemen involved in harassing the minor whowas charged with theft apparently as part of a "conspiracy".

"The CM has ordered the release of the girl currentlylodged in Banda Jail on the basis of a report submitted by theCB-CID," an official spokesman said. He said that there was aprovision under which the Chief Minister can order release ofan undertrial if it has been settled that the case was "fake".

Detailed probe will continue, the spokesman said.

Earlier, addressing a gathering at a function here on her55th birthday, Mayawati said the charges of theft on the girl,who was allegedly raped by Banda legislator PurushottamDwivedi, "appeared to be part of a conspiracy of the MLA tohide his misdeed".

"A Crime Branch-CID probe in the matter is on and afterits report, the state government will take stern actionagainst the policemen and others involved in harassing thegirl," the BSP leader said.

With a view to provide justice to the girl, Mayawatisaid that the state government would ensure hearing of case ina fast-track court.

"No one will be allowed to take law into his hand underBSP government. Strict action will be initiated against allthose, whosoever they are, who take law into their hands,"Mayawati said giving a message to partymen to remaindisciplined. (More) PTI AVA ABN PG