At least nine killed in SC/ST Act protest; MHA rushes anti-riot forces to UP, MP

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Apr 02, 2018 : Clashes between police and protesters during a nationwide bandh, called by Dalit outfits on Monday, claimed at least nine lives prompting the Centre to rush 800 anti-riot personnel to Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has asked all the states to take preventive measures, maintain public order and ensure the safety of people’s lives and property.

Four companies each of Rapid Action Force and CRPF were rushed to Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

At least four persons were killed in Madhya Pradesh while one lost their life in the protests in Uttar Pradesh.

Forces have also been rushed to Punjab.

The MHA said it was closely monitoring the situation and was in constant touch with the affected states after the violent protests erupted.

The MHA spokesperson said the ministry has made available central forces to the states that sought help. Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab have so far requested for central forces, adding that a curfew was imposed in Morena, Gwalior and Bhind districts of Madhya Pradesh.

Violent protests were also reported from several parts of Uttar Pradesh, including Azamgarh, Agra, Hapur and Meerut in the western part of the state.

Protests erupted across the country over a Supreme Court order that diluted the law that deals with atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.



courtesy:DHNS