Ghaziabad (UP), April 11: Launching an attack on the Mulayam Singh Yadav regime ahead of the UP Assembly polls, Congress president Sonia Gandhi today said there was "chaupat raj" (failed governance) in the state, that had now become a haunt of crime and corruption.
"Uttar Pradesh was known for its culture, literature and high political morals. It was respected all over the country. But now the state has lost its glory," Gandhi said addressing a public rally here.
Drawing a comparison between Congress rule in the state and the governments of other political parties, she said, "Under Congress rule, politics was based on values and dignity and the state was on the path to development."
Gandhi added that now, however, the state suffered from failed governance.
"There was a time when the government worked for the people. Now, there is a mad race for power the state is plagued by corruption. There is failed governance in the state now," she said.
Specifically referring to the Ghaziabad area, which goes to polls in the second phase of the elections on Friday, she said the region that was earlier known for its prosperity and industrial prowess all over the country was now going through a phase of depression.
"Employment and livelihood have been affected badly. The entire region is now known more for murders, extortion and other barbaric crimes," Gandhi said, apparently also referring to the serial killing of children and women in Nithari in nearby Noida.
Bureau Report
First Published: Wednesday, April 11, 2007, 00:00