Lessons Learnt? Mayawati Vows Not To Build Any More Statues If Voted To Power

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati, often criticised for having spent crores in building monuments and statues across the state capital, has vowed to not built any more of them if she comes to power in 2017. Speaking at a public rally in Ghaziabad, she assured her voters of working for development and criticised the Samajwadi Party government for poor law and order situation in the state.

In power from 2007 to 2012, Mayawati reportedly spent between Rs 25 and 60 billion (about US$500 million to US$1.3 billion) on parks dedicated to Dalit icons and herself. She continued building despite several warning from the Supreme Court and criticism from international agencies such as the World Bank.

Addressing the rally, Mayawati said she will provide direct cash incentives to the weaker sections of the society. “For local developmental issues of Gautam Budh Nagar, Ghaziabad and Hapur, we will allocate whatever sum can be earmarked from the government treasury,” she said.

According to recent polls, BSP is expected to win between 47 to 100 seats in the upcoming elections. The party has fielded over 100 Muslim candidates to garner minority votes.