Agra: Terming the law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh as bad, Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani today (Apr 4, 2004) denied that BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) had a soft corner for Chief Minister Mulayam Singh Yadav.

"There is no soft corner for Mulayam Singh Yadav," Advani told mediapersons when asked reports in this regard.

"The way my colleagues describe the state of affairs in Uttar Pradesh is painful. The law and order situation in the State is bad," he said.

"I am also in-charge of internal security where law and order is crucial. I am really concerned about governance in the State," said the Deputy Prime Minister, who also holds the Home portfolio.

Asserting terrorism was a serious problem, he said that the Centre was working on it and hoped the State Governments would cooperate in the matter.