Maya seeks more funds for statues, memorials

The BSP government in the state has actually sought Rs 553.91 crore to carry out Maya's "dream projects."

It has asked for Rs 57.8 crore for erecting statues of dalit icons in the Kanshiram Memorial, Rs 57.66 crore for the `Samajik Parivartan Sthal', Rs 57.29 crore for Ramabai Rally ground and Rs 200 crore for the Eco Park. Despite the state government spending Rs 1,500 crore on memorials, parks and statues, the assembly appears likely to clear the sums sought. The government is going ahead with the proposal in the face of criticism from various quarters.

They have been particularly sharper due to the prevailing drought situation in the state.

A PIL had been filed in the Supreme Court for a stay on the construction of statues with public funds and the court has declined to stay the same.

Meanwhile, the ruling BSP voiced strong opposition in the assembly to the Centre's move to set up a Bundelkhand Development Authority to implement Central schemes. The assembly later passed a resolution opposing any such authority.