Theft charge against dalit girl seems to be a conspiracy: Mayawati

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mayawati today said the Banda rape case hearing will be held in a fast-track court and government will take action against policemen involved in "harassing" the victim on whom theft charges were slapped as part of an apparent "conspiracy".

"The charges of theft on the girl appeared to be part of a conspiracy of the MLA to hide his misdeed (rape)," Mayawati said while addressing people at a function here on her 55th birthday.

"A Crime Branch-CID probe in the matter is on and after its report, the state government will take stern action against the policemen and others involved in harassing the girl," the BSP leader said.

With a view to provide justice to the girl, Mayawati said that the state government would ensure hearing of case in a fast-track court (FTC).

"No one will be allowed to take law into his hand under BSP government. Strict action will be initiated against all those, whosoever they are, who take law into their hands," Mayawati said giving a message to partymen to remain disciplined.