Addressing a press conference in the wake of statewide violent protests by the SP activists, during which a student was killed in Etawah district, Mayawati alleged the Opposition party wanted to incite violence in the state with the help of ‘goonda and criminal elements’.

"SP workers still feel that it is their government which is ruling the state. They should know that now a BSP government is in place in the state," she said.

The Chief Minister said she had directed the Kanpur divisional commissioner to investigate the entire matter.

She warned that her government would not tolerate any attempt by any one, including SP chief Mulayam Singh Yadav, to take the law into his hands.

"Stern legal action will be taken against those who make such an attempt. Whether he be Yadav or even a BSP leader," she said.

"Even Mulayam Singh Yadav will not be spared if he tries to shield such criminal elements," Mayawati said.

She claimed people arrested during protests included ‘goons and anti-socials who have serious criminal records’.