Compare UP then and now: Sonia

Launching an attack on the Mulayam Singh Yadav regime ahead of the second phase of Uttar Pradesh assembly polls, Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday said there was 'chaupat raj' (failed governance) in the state.

"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," Sonia said, addressing a public rally in Ghaziabad.

Drawing 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."

She added that however, now 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," Sonia 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," the Congress president said, apparently also referring to the serial killing of children and women in Nithari in nearby Noida.    

"Are governments made for this purpose? Is this socialism," she asked, in an apparent attack on the Mulayam Singh Yadav regime.

Criticising other political parties for practising divisive politics, she said, "You gave a chance to all political parties. But they all served themselves rather than serving the people. It is now time to cleanse UP of these parties"

Hitting out at SP at a well-attended election rally at Mathura, Sonia said there was state of anarchy in UP and that people were not feeling safe as criminals ruled the roost.

"Selfish elements have crossed the limit in the state. Huge sums of money were given to Uttar Pradesh for different schemes but it has not been spent properly and as a result the benefit has not reached the people," she said, appealing to the people to bring the Congress to power.

"We are fighting for the revival of the glory and culture of Uttar Pradesh, the crown of the country. The state has given a number of prime ministers to the country and has played outstanding role in freedom struggle. Its culture is Ganga-Yamuna and we are fighting for its revival without compromising on its tradition," the Congress president said.