The function was organized to celebrate UP’s step towards polio-free state still law and order was on the back of Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav’s mind as he said that his government was making all efforts to bring the crime rate down.
"The law and order scenario is still a concern for the state government. The Government has taken some steps and these have bore fruits but more has to be done in this sector," Yadav said while addressing participants who have assembled to take a resolve to make UP a polio-free state in a function held at 5, Kalidas Marg, here on Sunday.
The state government has got flak for recent spurt in crime and indecent behaviour of police towards the victims or the people protesting against these incidents. CM has shifted DGP and had suspended over a dozen police men for dereliction of duty to send the message that his government means business.
"I am sure our efforts will bear fruits," he said as he turned towards Government’s efforts to eradicate polio from the state.
It is the third year in a row when the state has not reported a single case of polio. The experts say that if this trend continues for one more year Uttar Pradesh will be declared polio-free state.
"The health officials can not be complacent because no polio cases have been reported. We should keep a tight watch on this disease as it is still prevalent in neighbouring countries of Pakistan and Afghanistan," he said and added:
" ''Polio drops drive has certainly has given positive results. Take a vow to fight this disease that cripples our children''.
He said Uttar Pradesh government is making all out effort to strengthen the health department to provide better health facilities to the people.
Chief Minister also appreciated the role of Health Minister Ahmed Hassan, Muslim clerics and the non-governmental organisations in helping the government in the awareness programme. He honoured 18 clerics with shawl for their role in promotingpulse polio campaign among minority community.
Vice-president AIMPlB Kalbe Sadiq, however, refused to accept the honour.
PWD Minister Shivpal Singh Yadav Mr Ahmed Hassan along with other ministers were present in the function. Several Muslim clerics, including Shahi Imam of Idahgah Aishbagh Maulana Khalid Rashid Firangimahali, were also present along with representatives of the NGOs, UNICEF, WHO and Rotary Club.
The last polio case in the state was reported in Ferozabad on April 21, 2010.