The state government's stand was outlined by Akhilesh even as BSP chief Mayawati stepped up her attack on arch-rival SP accusing it of trying to shield Raja Bhaiya, who resigned after he was booked for criminal conspiracy in the murder of DSP Zia-ul-Haq in mob violence in Pratapgarh on Saturday.
Describing the killings of the police officer and a village head as "very tragic", the Chief Minister said things would be clear only after completion of the CBI inquiry for which the state government will fully cooperate. The state government has already recommended a CBI probe.
"Action would be taken against those policemen who fled away from the scene....Those who showed weakness. Action would be taken against those found guilty," said Akhilesh.
To a question whether Raja Bhaiya would be arrested, UP Parliamentary Affairs Minister Azam Khan, who accompanied the Chief Minister, said, "Wait for a while".
As the UP police struggled for a breakthrough in the killings, Mayawati, a former Chief Minister, said Raja Bhaiya moving around scot free would weaken the DSP murder case.
Terming as a "heinous crime" the killing of Zia, the Centre has asked the UP government to submit a report into the incident and ensure strict action against culprits.
Zia was killed by a mob in Pratapgarh when he had rushed there after a village head was shot dead over a land dispute. The slain officer's wife has alleged that Raja Bhaiya had a hand in the attack.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
