The Hindu : New Delhi News : Mayor’s participation in violent protest deplored

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Tuesday, Mar 11, 2008
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New Delhi

Mayor’s participation in violent protest deplored

Staff Reporter

“Clear example of BJP’s lack of faith in democratic values”

CRITICISED: Delhi Mayor Arti Mehra

NEW DELHI: The Leader of the Opposition in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, J. K. Sharma, has condemned Mayor Arti Mehra’s participation in the Bharatiya Janata Party’s violent protest against the Communist Party of India (Marxist) here on Sunday.

In a statement on Monday, Mr. Sharma took strong exception to the manner in which several senior BJP leaders including the Leader of the Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, Jagdish Mukhi, and various other municipal councillors had protested against the CPI (M).

“Despite being the First Citizen of Delhi, Arti Mehra participated in the violent protest, belittling the dignity of her post. Ideally she should have adopted an impartial attitude and risen above petty party politics,” said Mr. Sharma. The Congress leader said Ms. Mehra had gone to the scene of protest in her official car and even got a First Information Report lodged against her.

“This is a clear example of the BJP’s lack of faith in democratic values. Democratic protests should be non-violent but the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh workers have exhibited an utter lack of restrain when it comes to fulfilling their political interests. Even the Mayor has been repeatedly guilty of participating in protests that is unbecoming of the post she holds,” he added.

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