Rahul attacks Mulayam, reaches out to Muslims

Kanpur: In a scathing attack on Mulayam Singh Yadav, Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said that Samajwadi Party supremo who claims to be a leader of Muslims should tell them what he has done for the community during his three stints as chief minister of Uttar Pradesh.

"Mulayam Singh says that 'I am a leader of Muslims'. So many of our Muslim brothers are standing here. He formed government thrice in the last 22 years. You should tell me what did he do for you," the Congress general secretary said addressing an election rally in Muslim-dominated area of Chamanganj here.

When the crowd responded with cries of "nothing, nothing", Rahul continued, "So tell me what kind of leader is he. He claims to be your leader and does nothing for you".

Taking on Yadav in the issue of subquota for minorities, Rahul said, "When Mulayam Singh was the chief minister, the media would ask him about his views on Muslim reservation, but he would remain tightlipped.

"You will be surprised to know that the state which has over 70 districts has only one Muslim District Magistrate. Now Congress has given you reservation, so Mulayam says that he would have done more.

"I want to ask him why did he not do it when he was the chief minister thrice. Had he done anything from the Muslims, the community would not have been so backward. He took your vote but did nothing for you," Rahul said.

Accusing SP and BSP of making false promises, Rahul said, "We will not make any promise because we believe in action. The SP and BSP leaders only make promises and do little for the development of the state."

Vowing to change Uttar Pradesh in five years if the Congress comes to power, he said, "I have come here to forge a relationship. I am 41 years of age and our relationship will continue for next 20-25 years".