SC issues notice to Mayawati govt on statues' issue

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday issued showcause notice to the Mayawati-led Uttar Pradesh government for using money meant for the state's development for installing statues of the chief minister and sought a reply on the matter in four weeks.

A notice was also sent to chief minister Mayawati.

Last night, slamming Mayawati for spending Rs 1,000 crore to install her own statues, Union home minister P Chidambaram said the amount could have been used to provide basic amenities to the people and wipe out poverty.

"She is spending Rs 1000 crore on establishing statues of elephants and herself. Can there be something more shameful than this in Indian politics," he asked.

"Of what use will be the statues in UP. The Rs 1000 crore could have helped wipe out poverty of thousands of people, provide basic amenities and education," he said, addressing a meeting to thank voters of his constituency Sivaganga last night.

Last week, Mayawati had received much criticism from Opposition parties for unveiling statues and parks of Dalit leaders ahead of schedule, saying it was aimed at pre-empting the Supreme Court from putting these projects on hold.

Mayawati had unveiled the 15 statues, which included that of BSP founder late Kanshi Ram and her own, and parks at a hurriedly-organised function here on Thursday, nine days ahead of schedule.