Mayawati did not grant funds under the NRHM, claims BSP

Jumping to the rescue of former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mayawati following allegations of her involvement in the NRHM scam, the Bahujan Samaj Party said that though she held the family welfare department for two years she had no role in granting funds under the NRHM.

"Though she held the family welfare department between 2007 and 2009, she never gave any financial acceptance as neither it was sought from her as none of the documents were placed before her nor there was any requirement for the same as per the rules", a BSP release issued said.

Terming the statements of SP leaders regarding enquiries in the scam as politically motivated, the release said, it was also aimed at diverting attention from their government's failure to fulfil poll promises and deteriorating law and order situation.

Citing the various steps taken by the former chief minister including sacking of two ministers in her government and recommending CBI and CAG enquiries, the release said, it would have been better had these leaders including the chief minister and his ministers kept silent when the probe was on and waited for its final outcome.

Alleging that the present government is suffering from "BSP mania", the release said, at the state level the NRHM scheme is conducted, implemented by two committees – executive committee and governing body - which are led by the principal secretary of the department and chief secretary, respectively.