Date:18/09/2004 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2004/09/18/stories/2004091814701200.htm

National

Lalu's gesture to the poor

By Our Special Correspondent

CHENNAI, SEPT. 17. The Union Railway Minister, Lalu Prasad's concern for the poor came to light on Thursday.

The Minister, who was on a tour of South Central Railway, visited Ekambarakupam, near Nagari, in Chitoor district of Andhra Pradesh, to inspect some railway works.

About 100 people, including women, who were working in the station, met the Minister and demanded more amenities at the station.

He assured them that the Ministry would give priority to their demands.

Realising that a majority of the workers were struggling for even one meal a day, Mr. Prasad handed over Rs. 1000 to them asking them to have good food.

The Minister visited later visited the Tirumala temple along with his family, including his Chief Minister wife Rabri Devi.