Date: 
30.03.2010

The Mayawati government's move to book legislators with criminal record is a step in the right direction. Political motives have been attributed to the decision, but BSP leaders argue that their own MLAs have not been spared. Crime is the single-most important factor that debilitates development in a region. Any impartial action to improve law and order is welcome. Such a step is most likely to find a positive response among voters as well. A key factor that helped Mayawati win the 2007 assembly elections in UP was her promise to crack down on criminals if voted to office.

The focus of the Mayawati government, so far, has been on statue building and other megalomaniacal projects, which are a waste of public funds. A new trajectory is needed for UP to improve its lot. Mayawati only needs to look across the state borders to see the change in Bihar. This state, an economic laggard for many years, has seen spectacular growth recently. A major reason for the turnaround is the success of the government in improving law and order in the state. There is a lesson here for UP. Many factors fuel economic growth and development. But a key trigger is the freedom to work without fear. The prime job of the government is to secure the state from law-breakers for people to make best use of their creative energies and entrepreneurial skills. Jobs and investment will follow in due course. If Mayawati succeeds, the impact will be far-reaching. Bihar and UP would be taken out of the 'bimaru' grouping and join the mainstream of India's development.

Source url: 
http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-03-30/edit-page/28143777_1_mayawati-law-and-order-crime
© Association for Democratic Reforms
Privacy And Terms Of Use
Donation Payment Method