Uttar Pradesh (UP)has a reputation of being the most politically volatile state in the country. The battle over the hot seat came to an end when Bahujan Samaj Party leader Mayawati emerged winner. She has yet again claimed the burning chair of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister for the fourth time proving that UP ki majboori hai, Mayawati zaroori hai.

Mayawati’s spectacular victory has left all other political parties gaping and kissed goodbye to Mulayam Singh’s rule. Political gurus are busy analysing the ramifications while the nation watches on. As Mayawati was sworn in chief minister on 13 May 2007, the onlookers gazed dizzily. A matrix of mixed opinions netted the minds of many wondering what the new political drama would reveal.

The Uttar Pradesh electorate was never known to rise above constricted caste dogmas but this time the upper castes and lower castes voted for their respective candidates, the amalgamation worked for Mayawati. One of the prime factors that led to her victory is the fact that she is the first leader to have led the dalit government to power in the country. She has undoubtedly dealt with the male worshipping society giving them checkmate by crushing their malicious caste pursuits.

Mayawati’s Iron Grip

There are promises to keep and agendas to follow. Mayawati said that her victory signifies the end of gunda raj in the state. The BSP head has definitely punched in a huge hole with an iron fist against all anti-social elements in UP but the question is that how deep is the hole and how lasting?

This leaves many wondering if UP will be vacuum- cleaned of redtapism and all other forms of corruption? People have high hopes from the new CM and believe that she is capable of demolishing the flaws in administration and will deliver good governance.

According to sources, she is determined to get UP rid of the label of a socially backward state and is thinking on the lines of enhancement. She has a vision that will throw the crime active badlands of UP onto the path of progress.

UP is the hub of criminal activity and Mayawati is all set to change that. The politicians and mafia control various segments and bureaucracy is also caste oriented. Most of the schools in rural UP are non-functional and poverty is omnipresent. The state is practically void of any opportunities for the educated youth and the loom of unemployment hovers everywhere.

Moreover, the state is deprived of proper healthcare and medical facilities combined with environmental concerns and sanitation. The agriculture industry needs a boost and the water management issues need to be addressed.

UP To Go Under a Makeover

It is like revamping the entire State in one go. It will surely be a difficult task but not an impossible one for Mayawati. She has already started to take action. Mayawati has transferred several officers who she suspected were close to Mulayam Singh Yadav, former UP Chief Minister.

Mayawati has proposed to launch a major tree plantation drive in UP titled ‘Operation Green’ keeping in mind the rising environmental concerns. This project will aim towards increasing the forest cover in the state. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 4.10 billion and special focus will be given to the Vindyachal and Bundelkhand areas where a new scheme to promote bamboo plantation will be undertaken. Simultaneously, a new campaign will also be launched to protect forest areas from encroachments.

All eyes are on Mayawati. The time has finally arrived for her to prove her loyalty to UP. The common man has high hopes from the new CM. He feels she will improve the infrastructure and he will have better access to basic amenities like water, electricity and food.