Acted as per Constitution to better conditions in UP: Ram Naik

BAGHPAT: Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik, who has been at loggerheads with Samajwadi Party over several issues ever since he took over the gubernatorial post last year, has said he used the powers vested in him under the Constitution to improve the condition of the state.

"I don't like to be dragged in controversy...I am using my constitutional powers to improve the condition of the state and will continue to do so," Naik had told reporters here yesterday.

Naik also justified his decision to seek details of nine candidates that the state government has recommended to the state Legislative Council under the nominated members category, saying that it was necessary to know about their background, contribution and achievements.

The Governor had reportedly sought detailed information from Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav to run background checks on nine persons recommended.

For Nine MLC vacant seats, the state government had sent the list of names to the Governor on May 20.

On the law and order of the state, Naik said that sincere efforts were needed on this front.