Imam, supporters attack mediapersons outside PM residence

New Delhi, Apr 18 (UNI) Supporters of Jama Masjid Shahi Imam clashed with mediapersons outside the Prime Minister's residence this afternoon while emerging from a meeting with Dr Manmohan Singh on the reservation issue.

Imam Bukhari snapped at a reporter of a news channel after he hurled a poser at him on the reservation issue. Following this, about half a dozen of his supporters allegedly assaulted the reporter leading to loud protests.

Even as others tried to calm both sides, the Imam challenged the the media's authority to question him.

While all this was still on, some of the Imam's supporters attacked other mediapersons who protested the violent behaviour.

This led to further heated exchanges after which the matter was brought under control by others present there.

Later, mediapersons reported the matter to the police and demanded action against the Imam and his supporters.

As the details of the incident reached the cabinet members, who were holding a meeting inside the Prime Minister's residence, they rushed to pacify the agitated journalists who sat on a 'dharna' outside.

Soon Home Minister Shivraj Patil came to the reporters who explained to him what all had taken place.

Mr Patil, after hearing them, assured that he would personally look into the matter.

UNI AN VD AT PC1437