 "Mulayam Singh Yadav")
Ruling Samajwadi Party (SP) president Mulayam Singh Yadav on Wednesday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over demonetisation, terming the step as detrimental to the country's farmers and traders.
Addressing a rally at Ghazipur district bordering Bihar, Mulayam, without explicit reference to demonetisation, said the Bharatiya Janata Party had taken a drastic measure and it was a conspiracy to ruin farmers, soldiers and traders.
He adds that farmers and traders were like real brothers as traders procure agriculture produce of farmers and both work harmoniously.
Mulayam said no one really knew what Modi had on his mind over important issues. "He (Modi) says all honest people are having a sound sleep. Does that mean those who are opposing him are dishonest?"
He even termed Modi as arrogant saying the PM was functioning in a whimsical manner, not befitting his stature in a democratic setup. The former defence minister advised Modi to readjust his policies as people were wise enough to see through the curtains.
Meanwhile, Mulayam expressed concern over simmering tension at the Line of Control. He said the country was passing through difficult times and newspapers were reporting on a daily basis that brave soldiers were putting up a stiff fight and also getting martyred.
"The whole country is standing behind the central government on this issue, but Pakistan is still not mending its ways," he wondered.
Meanwhile, he urged the youth cadres of the SP to shun factionalism and work towards strengthening the party before the 2017 UP polls due in a few months time.
Mulayam noted the SP was facing big challenges and some elements were weakening the party and creating rift by engaging in "whispers" and double talks.
"This (double talk) is the not the character of our party. These people are not well wishers of the SP, but are attempting to dominate the party as elections come nearer," he cautioned without suggesting names.
SP has been embattling factionalism and power struggle, which has resulted in numerous sackings of senior ministers from both the Akhilesh Yadav government and the ruling party, effected by warring camps.
