Criticising custodial deaths that have been on the rise in the state, Mayawati attributed these to 'negligent and apathetic' attitude of senior police officials. 'If such incidents are now repeated, deterrent punishment would be awarded to the guilty officials,' she said.

Mayawati was also very firm about curbing the corruption in the police rank and file.

'Last month I had ordered closure of all trade tax check-posts, but I am now told that these have been replaced by self-styled police check posts where cops were indulging in extortion,' she said.

'I do not want to receive these complaints any more otherwise you will have to face serious consequences.'