Uttar Pradesh minister sacked over controversial remarks

LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Khadi and Village Industry Minister Raja Ram Pandey, who triggered a controversy by allgedly promising to get roads in Pratapgarh district constructed like cheeks of actresses Hema Malini and Madhuri Dixit, was today sacked.

"Governor B L Joshi in consultation with Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has relieved minister Raja Ram Pandey from his post from this evening," a notification signed by chief secretary Javed Usmani said.

The Chief Minister, who is already holding charge of 61 departments, has been given the additional charge of Khadi and Village industry.

During his visit to Pratapgarh yesterday, Pandey had allegedly said roads would be constructed like the cheeks of actresses Hema Malini and Madhuri Dixit.

The minister's statement evoked sharp criticism from political parties and social organisations.