Bihar CM seeks central intervention for attacks on north Indians

Patna, Feb 24 (UNI) Bihar Chief minister Nitish Kumar today demanded immediate Central intervention for prevention of 'mindless attacks' on north Indian people, paricularly the people of Bihar, in Maharashtra.

Speaking to newspersons here after inaugurating a function of the Patna Science College alumni, the Chief Minister expressed serious concern at the growing incidence of 'unprovoked' attacks on many north Indians, particularly the people of Bihar, in different cities and towns of Maharashtra by the supporters of Raj Thackeray and their forced exodus.

''The Centre must intervene immediately and take stern action against the perpetrators of such reckless attacks on innocent people'', he said.

Stating that though the people of Maharashtra were known for their rich cultural heritage, cosmopolitan culture, education and high intellect, it was unfortunate to see that only a handful of youngsters at the instance of Maharashtra Nanirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackray were out to destroy that image by organising mindless attacks on Biharis and other north Indian people in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra.

Mr Kumar said he had already talked to his Maharashtra counterpart Vilasrao Deshmukh on the issue and urged him to take ''appropriate steps to prevent such attacks by all means''.

''The Union government can no longer remain idle and watch the issue turning into a conflagration,'' Mr Kumar said and demanded stern action against those responsible for such incidents as ''the Congress government in the State was the main constituent of the UPA government at the Centre''.

When asked abaut the alleged adverse remarks made by some opposition legislators against Bihar Governor R S Gavai on the opening day of the budget session on Friday last, the Chief Minister describing the incident as most unfortunate said the ''entire people of Bihar are with him'' (the Governor).

''I have also met him personally and expressed deep regrets for the incident'', he added.

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