In a significant ruling on VVIP encroachment, the Supreme Court today said that former chief ministers are not entitled to government accommodation, which they must vacate in two months.

Ruling on a petition filed by NGO Lok Prahari, the apex court ordered six former CMs of Uttar Pradesh, including Mulayam Singh Yadav and Mayawati, to vacate their bungalows.

"Any possession should be vacated in two months," the Supreme Court bench headed by Justice Anil R Dave said.

Lok Prahari had challenged the validity of 1997 Ex-Chief Minister Allotment of Residence Rule. It contended that that the rule was without statutory basis and in breach of Uttar Pradesh Minister Salaries, Allowances and other Facilities Act, 1981.

Home Minister and former UP Chief Minister Rajnath Singh is also believed to have retained his bungalow in Lucknow. Pther leaders to be affected by today's ruling are the BJP's Kalyan Singh, ND Tiwari of the Congress and Ram Naresh Yadav.

The bungalows occupied by the former Chief Ministers are located on Lucknow's posh Mall Road and Vikramaditya Marg.





