Friday, February 11 2005 22:18 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Ranchi: Renewing his attack on the UPA (United Progressive Alliance), the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) president, L K Advani, today (Feb 11, 2005) said the Congress has 'failed' to eradicate poverty in the country though it had promised to do so 30 years ago.

"Indira Gandhi had coined the slogan 'garibi hato' 30 years back, but it failed in its promise ... But the NDA (National Democratic Alliance) Government has been fulfilling its promises," Advani said while addressing a poll meeting at Tatisilva, about 20 km from Jharkhand capital.

The electorate, he added, has a choice to make between the NDA which fulfilled its promise and a divided UPA which only made 'tall claims', but failed to control the rising price graph and tainted Ministers in the Union Cabinet.

"Stephen Marandi's partying ways with Sibu Soren has completed the division in the UPA ... Vote for the party which can give a stable Government and good governance," he said.

Taking credit for the creation of Jharkhand, Advani said the new State has made advances in many areas while there were still some problems, which has been bequeathed by Bihar.

He attacked RJD (Rashtriya Janata Dal) supremo and Railway Minister Laloo Prasad and Lok Janshakti Party chief Ramvilas Paswan for playing the game of 'opportunistic politics'.

"In Bihar they are fighting, while in Delhi they are sitting together," the former Deputy Prime Minister said.

Advani also alleged that both the Congress and the RJD were promoting dynastic politics.

Addressing another poll meeting at Chakradharpur, Advani said, "At least half a dozen Ministers with criminal background are in the Manmohan Singh Cabinet. It is a shame for the country."

Earlier in the day, Advani paid rich tributes on the occasion of the death anniversary of Deen Dayal Upadhya at Ranchi.

While the first phase of polls for 24 Assembly constituencies were completed on February 3, campaigning for the second phase on February 15 has picked up with national leaders virtually camping in the State addressing public meetings across 29 constituencies.

The third phase for 28 seats would be held on February 23.