Lucknow, Jul 4: After the controversy over his resignation as the Chairman of Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), UPA’s candidate for upcoming presidential election – Pranab Mukherjee once again landed in a trouble. This time the former finance minister invited criticism as two jailed MLAs were present at the luncheon which was arranged for him at Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav’s residence in Lucknow on Tuesday, Jul 3.

Vijay Mishra of the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Mukhtar Ansari, an Independent MLA supported by SP, were the two jailed MLAs who got permission to attend the state assembly session and were barred from visiting any other places except the assembly.

However, snubbing the court’s order, the two MLAs attended the party at Akhilesh Yadav’s residence at 5 Kalidas Marg residence in Lucknow.

While Vijay Mishra has been accused of attacking BSP leader Nanad Kumar Nandi, Mukhtar Ansari is an accused in the murder of BJP MLA Krishnanad Rai. Both of them are currently occupying two beds at government hospital as they had complained of severe health problems and are brought to the Assembly in ambulances.

Now their presence in the grand lunch party arranged for Pranab Mukherjee shocked many including BSP leaders and MLAs.

“Such people were seen at 5 Kalidas Marg who have been allowed only to attend Assembly proceedings. They should have returned thereafter as they are not allowed to roam the city. These MLAs have broken the law,” claimed BSP’s Swami Prasad Maurya.

Pranab Mukherjee enjoyed lunch with Akhilesh and attended a dinner party with opposition leader Mayawati. He campaigned for his candidature for the presidential poll which will be held on Jul 19. Both Samajwadi Party and BSP have supported UPA’s choice.

Pranab Mukherjee earlier had faced criticism over resignation from ISI. “BJP alleges that it is a 100 per cent fabricated document….It’s very unfortunate that persons contesting such offices as President of India are indulging in illegal activities. We are demanding justice from the Election Commission… We are waiting for a certified copy of the Returning Officer’s order. It is open for all types of further action,” BJP General Secretary Ananth Kumar told reporters.

OneIndia News