Mayawati thanks grandfather for inculcating in her humane approach

In a rare public reference to her family, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati Friday recalled the contribution of her late grandfather in her life.

Crediting her grandfather Mangal Sen for inculcating in her a humane approach, she recalled how single-handedly he brought up his only son Prabu Dayal (her father) and ensured higher education for him, despite losing eyesight at a very young age.

"My grandfather also ensured that all girls in the family, including me, get the same status as boys...He had also opposed to my father's second marriage," Mayawati said after inaugurating UP Viklang Uddhar Dr Shakuntala Misra University on the outskirts of the city.

She said naming the varsity after an upper-class lady will send a strong message of equality in the society as Misra is known for her work for uplifting poor and handicapped.

Hitting out at Opposition in the state for accusing her of massive spendings on setting up memorials and parks, the BSP chief said less than one per cent of the state budget has been spent on them.

She said collections through sale of tickets in these parks will recover the expenses soon and later this will help collect additional funds which would be spent on welfare schemes for poor.