JAMSHEDPUR, Feb 11: Former Jharkhand chief minister Arjun Munda today said his regime had taken steps against the mafia operating in the state, but evaded a reply on whether his government fell because of this.
“My government certainly took measures against such forces and the scenario today is that mineral theft has been checked to a great extent,” Munda said when asked whether the steps taken against the coal and iron-ore mafia was the reason behind the fall of his government.
Munda told reporters that his government had taken steps to improve power, road, rural economy and was going in right direction when it was pulled down.
“Why was no alternative government formed if they were really serious about delivering the goods?” Munda asked without referring to any political party.
Referring to the political instability in Jharkhand since its formation, he expressed confidence that people were mature and would vote for a party which would form a stable government.
About imposition of President’s rule, Munda said, “Bureaucrats should discharge their responsibility impartially under President’s Rule and continuity maintained to implement the polices taken by the government for uninterrupted growth of the state.”
To a question whether the strength of the state assembly should be increased, Munda said his government had already recommended an increase of assembly seats from 81 to 150.
“However, any amendment has to be taken up by Parliament,” he added. (PTI)